Samsung's Galaxy Watch soon to be approved as a measuring device for sleep apnea
At the end of 2024, Samsung's smartwatch can be used like a medical device in the USA. It is not yet clear which model is meant by this.
It is not yet clear whether this Galaxy Watch 4 classic can also measure sleep apnea
(Image: c't)
From the third quarter of 2024, Samsung smartwatches can also be used in the USA to detect sleep apnea, a breathing regulation disorder. The local health authority, the FDA, has granted approval for this after the system was already approved in South Korea in October. This is said to be the first such approval for a smartwatch in the USA.
According to a statement from Samsung, there are a number of medical and technical requirements, although the company does not fully explain the reasons for this. For example, people who want to use the system must be at least 22 years old and must not have been diagnosed with sleep apnea. In a footnote to the announcement, Samsung explains that the procedure is not intended to replace or supplement existing treatments for sleep apnea. Likewise, the data may not be used for clinical diagnoses.
Furthermore, both a Galaxy Watch and a “compatible” Galaxy smartphone from Samsung are required. As Series 7 smartwatches are expected in mid-2024, it is possible that only this watch will be able to use the new functions. The “Samsung Health Monitor” app can then be used to monitor a person's sleep for at least four hours per night on two days within a ten-day period to identify the symptoms.
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Sleep apnea is more than snoring
Sleep apnea syndrome (SAS) is a condition that goes far beyond the most common symptom of snoring. With mild apnea, breathing stops only occasionally, but with obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSA) these are frequent and severe. This reduces the oxygen supply, causing affected people to wake up, which often happens unconsciously.
The consequences include disturbed sleep phases so that rest is no longer possible. Tiredness during the day is then only one possible symptom; without treatment, various physical and psychological complaints can occur. According to Samsung, the new system should be able to detect both mild and severe cases of OSA.
(nie)
