Abstract FR444: An In-Depth Review of the Clinical Value and Accuracy of Wearable Technology in Blood Pressure Monitoring

Introduction: In place of clinic-based readings, wearable blood pressure (BP) monitoring devices offer a continuous and valuable option. If accurate and successful, new devices like cuffless arm bands and smartwatch sensors hold excellent potential for managing hypertension. Wearable blood pressure monitors' validity and reliability, however, are still up for discussion. We thoroughly examined the impact of wearables on blood pressure monitoring in order to more effectively monitor the treatment of hypertension. Hypothesis: Patients with uncontrolled hypertension use continuous wearable blood pressure and smartphone feedback; they reach their target systolic BP 25% more often and have a 15% reduced risk of heart diseases within 6 months, all while adhering to their medication plan (at least 80% medication possession). Methods: By following PRISMA, we looked at studies comparing wearable BP devices to the regular method or their use in clinical situations. Only 10 studies were included (3 randomized controlled trials and 7 observational/validation studies). The study pulled out important information on the device's accuracy, how the patients followed its advice, and its effects on controlling blood pressure. The quality of every trial was evaluated using the Cochrane Risk of Bias tool. Results: Values taken from wearable devices did not always correspond closely to values from regular cuff BP readings. Reports show that brachial cuff readings agree moderately with other tests, unless the positioning or movements are improper. RCTs found that wearable monitors can help patients watch their health closely by reminding them to monitor it more frequently; one study reported that blood pressure control improved by a small amount in those using monitors versus usual care. No major device-related problems were found, and patients mostly liked using the wearable monitors. Because there were few participants and many different devices, the risk of bias was, in most cases, not high. Conclusions: This review combines what we know about wearable BP monitoring and points out where it is improving. Wearable devices help patients with hypertension monitor their blood pressure and offer lots of data, yet concerns about their accuracy remain. Our work highlights that wearables are novel for controlling blood pressure and emphasizes that more research and proper trials are needed to determine their reliability.