Cutting-edge artificial intelligence technology for measuring blood pressure, known as Lifelight, is making waves in Hampshire and the Isle of Wight. Developed by Xim, a company located on Southampton University Science Park, this innovative solution is set to transform how blood pressure is monitored, especially for those who don’t regularly engage with healthcare services.
In trials conducted across Hampshire and the Isle of Wight, patients simply gaze at a tablet screen, and within a mere 40 seconds, Lifelight accurately records their blood pressure. What makes this technology stand out is its non-invasive nature, eliminating the need for traditional inflatable cuffs. Xim has been collaborating with the NHS since 2019, demonstrating that Lifelight is already as precise as the conventional methods.
The ultimate goal of Xim is to make this contactless technology widely available, allowing patients to monitor their blood pressure conveniently from the comfort of their own homes using tablets and smartphones.
At the heart of Lifelight’s operation is a tablet camera that detects subtle changes in a patient’s face, referred to as “microblushes,” occurring with each heartbeat. Artificial intelligence then interprets this data, providing accurate blood pressure, heart rate, and respiration information.
Trials of this groundbreaking technology have taken place at Thornhill Baptist Church in Southampton and Paulsgrove surgery in Portsmouth. Dr. Lindsay Welch from the Wessex Academic Health Science Network explains that they are strategically targeting areas where people may not have regular cardiovascular check-ups. These regions often experience financial challenges and a high prevalence of other complex health issues and social problems.
According to figures from Public Health England, a staggering 43% of individuals with hypertension in the UK remain undiagnosed. High blood pressure is a condition that often goes unnoticed due to its lack of symptoms. However, if left untreated, it can lead to severe health complications, including strokes, heart attacks, kidney disease, and dementia.
Dr. Karen Kyd, a GP from Portsdown Group Practice, emphasizes the importance of getting regular blood pressure checks. She highlights that this initiative will not only enhance accessibility to tests but also provide innovative care options for patients.
As Lifelight continues to show promise in trials, the prospect of deploying this technology nationwide is on the horizon. Its potential to reach those who are underserved or have limited access to healthcare services could significantly impact the detection and management of hypertension, ultimately improving the health outcomes for many. With technology like Lifelight, the healthcare landscape in the UK may be on the brink of a transformative leap in patient care.
