Introduction to the Forum
On April 14, 2025, Huawei Japan organized an engaging forum centered around blood pressure measurement leveraging digital technology. This event saw the participation of esteemed experts, such as Professor Kazuo Kariho from Jichi Medical University and Professor Wang Jiguang from Shanghai Jiao Tong University. They shared their latest findings and insights into blood pressure management, integrating medical expertise with cutting-edge technology.
Rico Zhang, President of Huawei’s Global Wearables & Sports Healthcare Division, showcased innovative wearable technologies that further personal health management. This forum aimed not only to raise awareness about hypertension but also to underline the importance of continuous monitoring and smart healthcare solutions in our daily lives.
The Evolution of Health Monitoring with Technology
Rico Zhang commented on the growing awareness of health and the rising demand for healthcare monitoring. He noted that there has been a significant global shift from traditional clinical diagnostics to self-management, emphasizing the importance of self-care. In 2021, Huawei introduced the first wrist-based ECG and blood pressure monitoring smartwatch, the HUAWEI WATCH D, which allows for real-time blood pressure measurement. The latest model, HUAWEI WATCH D2, features an even more compact design, combined with advanced algorithms for continuous monitoring.
This innovation has garnered certification as a medical device both globally and within Japan. The ongoing development of the HUAWEI TruSense biometric sensing system marks a new chapter in wearable technology and aims to offer comprehensive health management solutions.
Insights on Hypertension Management
Professor Kazuo Kariho highlighted that the prevalence of hypertension is notably higher among Asians compared to their Western counterparts, underlining the importance of regular monitoring. His research emphasized the necessity of measuring blood pressure at various times, especially during the early morning when readings above 130 could indicate an increased risk of strokes. The Japan Hypertension Society is advocating nationwide to encourage the regular measurement of blood pressure, reiterating the motto "Let's Measure Your Risk First!".
This proactive approach, utilizing emerging technologies, allows for the early detection of risks associated with hypertension such as morning hypertension and stress-induced fluctuations in blood pressure. The integration of AI and digital technologies is anticipated to lead to more personalized hypertension management solutions, enhancing patient treatment and preventive care.
The Role of Wearables for Continuous Monitoring
Professor Wang Jiguang discussed the shift from traditional blood pressure measurement techniques to continuous monitoring through advanced wearable devices. The compact design of the HUAWEI WATCH D2 makes it user-friendly for continuous monitoring, whether during sleep or while resting.
These wearable devices not only measure blood pressure but also store and analyze data, providing users with valuable insights into their health trends over time. He elaborated on the accuracy validation studies conducted in China, showcasing the HUAWEI WATCH D2’s efficacy in diverse applications including post-exercise blood pressure assessments.
Health Technologies and AI Applications
Daisuke Konoike, CEO of Healthcare Technologies, introduced initiatives leveraging AI in health data management. Their services, such as Well-Gate and HELPO, aim to assist employees and consumers by providing them with tools for health monitoring and real-time medical support. These services highlight the potential for AI to enhance the quality of healthcare, addressing challenges related to accessibility, cost, and quality.
Implementing Health Monitoring Systems
Noriko Kobayashi from TechnoCraft discussed the development of the 'Well-Navi' system, which utilizes vital data collected through wearable devices to monitor health continuously. This system not only enhances patient monitoring but also facilitates real-time data analysis, aiding in early detection of health risks across various sectors.
Huawei's Future Endeavors in Health Technology
As the President of Huawei Japan's Device division, Hai Lei remarked on the untapped potential of wearable products in addressing health scenarios beyond fitness monitoring. He underscored the need for further engagement to increase wearable product penetration, which currently remains at less than 5% in the Japanese market.
Through continuous innovation, Huawei aims to enhance its offerings in digital health management and provide improved services and user experiences. The overwhelming response at the forum highlighted a collective drive towards better health management solutions, fostering a healthier, more informed community.
Conclusion
The forum served as a crucial platform to engage diverse stakeholders in the health technology landscape, emphasizing the importance of digital health solutions like the HUAWEI WATCH D2. As technology continues to evolve, it heralds a future where healthcare can be more personalized and accessible, ultimately leading to improved health outcomes for individuals across the globe.