NICT Develops Wearable EKG Machine

Just when you thought there couldn’t be many more technological advances in medical equipment, Japan’s National Institute of Information and Communications Technology (NICT) has developed an electrocardiograph that displays measurable data on a mobile phone. That’s right, an EKG machine that can be worn like an accessory.

This electrocardiograph machine uses a wireless, short-distance communication system and can perform EKG machine testing around the clock while transmitting data wireless, but the best part is, it can be worn like a necklace. The NICT expects this new electrocardiograph to become a staple of personal health management as it will help patients monitor their heart rhythms during everyday life.

Not only can this new device perform an electrocardiogram, it can also measure temperature changes on the surface of the body and overall body posture. Lightweight and portable, it also requires no conductive gel, so it can be worn around the neck all day without making the patient feel uncomfortable. Additionally, this portable EKG machine has a low-power security function, which encrypts the data dynamically for each user and helps reduce power consumption by using only the amount of power needed to remain operable.

Researchers at NICT expect this new device to be sold to medical practitioners who work with chronically ill heart patients and people who require extensive testing to diagnose a heart abnormality. As the demand increases for this portable EKG monitor, global medical equipment manufacturers are expected to offer devices like this at more competitive prices. Look for more information to be released by NICT as the product completes its final round of clinical trials.