Researchers at Klick Labs developed a technique to predict chronic high blood pressure using a person’s voice. Their study appeared in the peer-reviewed journal IEEE. It shows how vocal biomarkers can help detect hypertension. The method analyzes subtle speech patterns. It aims to make health screenings more accessible and affordable.
High Blood Pressure Detection by Voice: How It Was Done
The study included 245 participants. They recorded their voices up to six times daily for two weeks. A proprietary mobile app handled the recordings. Klick Labs built this app using machine learning. It analyzes hundreds of vocal biomarkers that humans can’t detect. These include pitch variations, energy patterns, and sound sharpness changes.
The researchers tailored the predictive models by gender. For the first threshold, accuracy reached 84% for women and 77% for men. For the stricter second threshold, it hit 63% for women and 86% for men.
Klick Labs Innovators Speak
“By leveraging various classifiers and establishing gender-based predictive models, we discovered a more accessible way to detect hypertension, which we hope will lead to earlier intervention for this widespread global health issue,” said Yan Fossat, senior vice president of Klick Labs and principal investigator of the study. “Hypertension can lead to a number of complications, from heart attacks and kidney problems to dementia.”
“Voice technology has the potential to exponentially transform health care, making it more accessible and affordable, especially for large, underserved populations,” says Jaycee Kaufman, a research scientist at Klick Labs.
Other Notable, Hypertension Related Innovations
Innovative technologies are transforming blood pressure management. Heartery offers an AI-driven app that provides personalized tools for individuals with hypertension. Developed with cardiologists, it delivers tailored exercise and nutrition plans, medication adherence support, and real-time health assessments. Users can scan foods to check salt, cholesterol, and fat content, helping them make heart-healthy choices.
Shen.AI introduces a non-invasive method to monitor vital signs using just a smartphone camera. Its technology measures blood pressure, heart rate, and other health markers through facial scanning. This approach eliminates the need for additional hardware, making health monitoring more accessible. Shen.AI’s platform integrates with various health apps, providing real-time data and personalized health insights.
These advancements aim to empower individuals to take control of their cardiovascular health. By utilizing everyday devices like smartphones, they offer convenient and cost-effective solutions for early detection and management of hypertension. As technology continues to evolve, such tools are set to play a crucial role in preventive healthcare, potentially reducing the global burden of heart disease.
Incorporating AI and machine learning into health monitoring not only enhances accuracy but also personalizes the user experience. With continuous data collection and analysis, these platforms can provide timely recommendations, encouraging healthier lifestyles and adherence to treatment plans. The integration of such technologies signifies a significant shift towards proactive health management, emphasizing prevention over treatment.
As more individuals adopt these innovative tools, the potential for improved public health outcomes increases. Early detection of hypertension can lead to prompt interventions, reducing the risk of complications like heart attacks and strokes. The convenience and accessibility of smartphone-based monitoring make it easier for people to engage in regular health assessments, fostering a more health-conscious society.
