The wearable diagnosis system developed by the research team can detect changes in various biomarkers using just one sensor attached to the abdomen. It can diagnose sleep apnea with over 91% accuracy compared to tests conducted at sleep centers. (Image courtesy of UNIST)
ULSAN, Jun. 4 (Korea Bizwire) –Researchers at Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology (UNIST) in South Korea have developed technology that allows diagnosing sleep apnea using a smartphone app.
According to UNIST, a research team led by professor Byun Young-jae from the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering has implemented a wearable sleep apnea diagnosis system using an electromagnetic wave-based sensor as a smartphone application.
Traditionally, testing for sleep apnea has required an inconvenient process of attaching multiple sensors and spending the night at a sleep center or hospital. In South Korea, this test has been limited as it is only covered by national health insurance once a year.
The wearable diagnosis system developed by the research team can detect changes in various biomarkers using just one sensor attached to the abdomen. It can diagnose sleep apnea with over 91% accuracy compared to tests conducted at sleep centers.
The technology encompasses the entire process from sensor operation to artificial intelligence-based data analysis, all occurring in real time. Unlike overseas apps that only assess sleep quality based on recorded sounds during sleep, this system can precisely analyze whether sleep apnea occurs.
Remarkably, the research team obtained approval from the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety just seven months after initiating technology development. This approval process for the diagnostic medical device was completed much more quickly than the typical duration of 18 months.
“Our research goal is to improve people’s health and quality of life through advanced bio-sensors,” said Byun. “This approval from the ministry is an important milestone that officially recognizes our technological capabilities.”
The technology was co-developed by SV Solution, a UNIST-based startup company founded by Byun.
Kevin Lee (kevinlee@koreabizwire.com)
