A software called Lifelight, developed by a company based in Southampton University Science Park, uses artificial intelligence to take a person’s blood pressure in just 40 seconds by analyzing color changes in their face. The technology specifically targets people who do not regularly engage with the NHS. Xim, the company behind Lifelight, has been conducting trials with the NHS since 2019 and claims that the software is already as accurate as the traditional inflatable cuff. The company hopes to make the contactless technology available for patients to use at home on their tablets and smartphones.
The trials have taken place at Thornhill Baptist Church in Southampton and Paulsgrove surgery in Portsmouth. According to Dr. Lindsay Welch from Wessex Academic Health Science Network, they are focusing on five key places where people do not receive regular cardiovascular checks. These places are often characterized by financial struggles and other complex illnesses and social problems. Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is common but often goes undiagnosed, and it can lead to serious health issues such as strokes, heart attacks, kidney disease, and dementia. Lifelight aims to make blood pressure checks more accessible and provide innovative care to patients.
In the UK, 43% of people with hypertension are undiagnosed, according to Public Health England. Dr. Karen Kyd, a GP from Portsdown Group Practice, emphasizes the importance of getting a simple blood pressure check, as early detection and proper support can help bring blood pressure under control and prevent serious health complications. This initiative using artificial intelligence technology could make tests more accessible and provide innovative care for patients.
