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Wearable Biosensors: Advantages and Disadvantages for Healthcare

wearable sensor healthcare monitoring biosensor technology remote monitoring patient health

This page covers the advantages and disadvantages of wearable biosensors for healthcare monitoring, including the different types available.

Introduction:

Wearable technology is experiencing rapid growth as it facilitates the easy tracking of people’s movements, biometrics, and health data. Advances in sensor technology, miniaturization, and manufacturing processes have lowered the cost of producing these wearable sensors. Their lightweight, compact size, and ease of wear make them convenient for everyday use, enhancing the quality of life and improving healthcare.

Wearable Biosensors and Their Types

Wearable biosensors are devices designed to be worn on the body, equipped with sensors that monitor various physiological parameters. These sensors detect and measure specific biological signals of the individuals wearing them. The collected biometric data is then transmitted to a compatible device or platform for further analysis and interpretation.

Wearable biosensors can provide real-time monitoring of a wide range of health related information, including:

  • ECG Sensors: Measure the electrical activity of the heart, monitoring heart rate and arrhythmias, providing insights into cardiac health.
  • Blood Pressure Estimation: Utilize optical sensors and other technologies to estimate blood pressure.
  • Activity Tracking: Employ accelerometers and gyroscopes to track physical activities such as distance traveled, steps taken, and calories burned.
  • Temperature Monitoring: Certain wearable biosensors can measure body temperature at regular intervals.
  • GSR Sensors: Measure the electrical conductivity of the skin.
  • PPG Sensors: Estimate heart rate, heart rate variability, SpO2 (blood oxygen saturation), and can detect changes in blood pressure.

The following table outlines some wearable biosensors for healthcare monitoring, along with their manufacturers and features.

Wearable biosensors with manufacturersFeatures
Philips Biosensor BX100This wearable biosensor continuously monitors vital signs, including heart rate, respiratory rate, and body position. It is developed for hospitals and healthcare facilities to enhance patient monitoring and early detection of potential complications.
Owlet Smart Sock 2 baby monitorTracks a baby’s heart rate and oxygen levels while they sleep using clinically proven pulse oximetry. This device alerts parents to any abnormalities, providing peace of mind and assisting them in the early detection of potential health issues.
MightySat ® Rx Fingertip Pulse Oximeter from Masimo Corporation USAMeasures oxygen saturation, pulse rate, perfusion index, respiration rate, etc.
Quell Wearable Pain Relief Device from NeuroMetrix, Inc.Quell is a wearable device that provides non-invasive pain relief for individuals suffering from chronic pain. It uses neurostimulation technology to stimulate sensory nerves and block pain signals, offering a drug-free alternative for managing pain.
VitalPatch from VitalConnectThis wearable biosensor patch continuously monitors multiple vital signs such as heart rate, respiratory rate, skin temperature, body posture, and falls. It can be used for remote patient monitoring, post-operative care, and in hospital settings.
Zio Patch from iRhythm TechnologiesA single-use waterproof biosensor patch designed specifically for cardiac monitoring.
Guardian Kit from AngelSense USAA wearable GPS tracking device that protects individuals from wandering and eloping. It consists of a GPS tracker, voice monitoring, and emergency alerts, providing caregivers with real-time location and safety monitoring.

Benefits or Advantages of Wearable Biosensors

Here are the benefits and advantages of wearable biosensors:

  • Continuous Monitoring: These sensors provide continuous monitoring of vital signs and physiological parameters. This real-time data collection and analysis provide valuable insights into an individual’s health status.
  • Portability and Convenience: They are highly portable and convenient for everyday use. Moreover, they are easily worn as standalone devices, allowing individuals to seamlessly track their health and wellness.
  • Informed Decision Making: By collecting biometric data using these wearable biosensors, individuals can make informed decisions about their lifestyle, exercise, sleep, and overall well-being.
  • Remote Patient Monitoring: These sensors enable remote patient monitoring, allowing healthcare professionals to track patients’ vital signs remotely. Hence they can assess health status of patients and intervene if necessary. This helps patients to reduce their hospital visits and lead early detection of health issues.
  • Proactive Health Management: The continuous monitoring of health data can help individuals to stay on top of their treatment plans and make proactive adjustments if required.

Drawbacks or Disadvantages of Wearable Biosensors

The following are the drawbacks and disadvantages of wearable biosensors:

  • Accuracy and Reliability: There are variations in the accuracy and reliability of collected data among different manufacturer devices.
  • Data Security and Privacy: Secure transmission, storage, and handling of health data over the internet is crucial to maintain confidentiality and protect privacy.
  • User Compliance: Some users may struggle with consistent usage of wearable biosensors. Engaging them and promoting long-term compliance can be a challenge.
  • Data Overload and Analysis: The numerous wearable biosensors generate huge amounts of data. It requires expertise to analyze and extract meaningful insights from the collected data for different patients.
  • Cost: The wearable biosensors which provide more features and accurate readings are usually expensive.