Daylight Saving Time May Increase Risks Of Heart Attacks

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While daylight saving time might appear like a great way to save energy, research has not shown any clear results.  In fact, it actually has more negative consequences than benefits.  Recent studies have highlighted that clock changes increases the risk of heart attacks.  Slight sleep deprivation triggered by this time shift causes circadian misalignment, which increases the heart attack risks by almost 30%.

Clock Change Causes Heart Attacks

A recent paper1Manfredini, R., Fabbian, F., Cappadona, R. et al. Intern Emerg Med (2018) 13: 641. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11739-018-1900-4 written by the Universities of Ferrara and Florence in Italy, warned of the risk of biannual clock change, particularly during the first week of the time change.  According to the paper, for the majority of individuals, the tiredness caused by time change might seem like a small issue but for others, it can result in graver consequence.

Studies have highlighted the link between heart attacks and lack of sleep.  Less than six hours of sleep is associated with obesity, diabetes, blood pressure, and premature death.  Disrupted sleep leads to consumption of more calories and fewer calories burned.  Moreover, just one sleepless night is enough to enhance insulin resistance.

The research reviewed existing heart attacks and daylight saving time literature and found that the Monday after the time change has the most number of heart attacks.  The first day of the week is also a critical one for Takotsubo cardiomyopathy, also referred to as “broken heart syndrome”.  This is a condition where the heart muscle suffers a temporary and sudden weakness, which is caused due to emotional stress, increased blood pressure, and higher levels of catecholamine, the fight-or-flight hormones.

What’s the Reason?

Human bodies prefer a longer day as compared to a shorter day.  The research referred to travelling numerous time zones, which cause the worse possible jet lag.  The same pattern has been associated with daylight time change transitions.

The circadian rhythm of the human body controls the sense of night and day, time to sleep, eat and more.  The same rhythm helps in regulating the metabolism to body organs, including the heart.  The change in time causes an imbalance in your body clock, especially in sensitive people.  Merely an hour of lost sleep might enhance stress levels, blood pressure, heart rate, as well as chemicals promoting inflammation.

Other Consequences of Daylight Saving Time

Another study2American Academy of Neurology (AAN). “Does daylight saving time increase risk of stroke?.” ScienceDaily. ScienceDaily, 29 February 2016. www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2016/02/160229220653.htm presented at the American Academy of Neurology’s 68th Annual Meeting in Vancouver, Canada, April 15 – 21, 2016, found that there is an 8% increase in cases of ischemic stroke in the first two days of daylight clock change as compared to the two weeks before and two weeks after the time change.

The Universities of Washington and Virginia published a study3Cho, K., Barnes, C. M., & Guanara, C. L. (2017). Sleepy Punishers Are Harsh Punishers: Daylight Saving Time and Legal Sentences. Psychological Science, 28(2), 242–247. https://doi.org/10.1177/0956797616678437 which highlighted that the Monday after the daylight saving time switch, the legal sentences given out in courts were 5% longer as compared to the previous Monday and the following Monday.  This indicated that the time switch affected their sleep, making the judges less productive.

This was supported by research4Wagner, D. T., Barnes, C. M., Lim, V. K. G., & Ferris, D. L. (2012). Lost sleep and cyberloafing: Evidence from the laboratory and a daylight saving time quasi-experiment. Journal of Applied Psychology, 97(5), 1068-1076 http://dx.doi.org/10.1037/a0027557. published in the Journal of Applied Psychology, stating that this time switch promotes productivity-draining endeavors, referred to as cyberloafing (surfing the net, checking personal emails on work time).  The same was true for undergraduate students who were found to engage in cyberloafing 8.4 minutes more than usual after time switch.

While all these results have been observational, they strongly indicate that daylight saving time is causing more harm than benefits.  The research highlighted that merely one day (Sunday), is not enough time for people to get accustomed to the time switch, making it harder on them for the rest of the week.

Valsartan: Blood Pressure Drug Being Recalled Across Europe After US Recall

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Over the past year, various blood pressure medicines have been recalled across the US and more recently in the UK and Europe after a cancer-causing contaminant was discovered in some of the batches.  Investigators believe that the medicines were contaminated in the manufacturing process.  Valsartan, which is one of the most commonly used blood pressure medicines, is also among those being recalled.

Valsartan

Valsartan is primarily used for the treatment of heart failure and high blood pressure.  It enhances the probability of the patient leading a longer and healthier life after suffering from a heart attack.  Valsartan is categorized under the class drugs known as Angiotensin Receptor Blockers (ARBs).  It relaxes blood vessels in order to help the blood flow easily.
There are various types of Valsartan currently available in the market and both the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) and European Medicines Agency (EMA) have announced the recall of several of them.  Further details of the recall can be found on the websites of both organisations.

The Reason Behind the Recall

These recalled blood pressure medications have been found to be contaminated with either N-nitrosodiethylamine (NDEA) or N-nitrosodimethylamine (NDMA), which are cancer-causing chemicals.  Moreover, research has also indicated that NDEA may also contribute towards blood cell and liver damage.

NDEA is utilized to create rocket fuel and has also been discovered in small amounts in certain foods and drinking water.  This chemical can be created via some chemical reactions and as industrial processes’ byproducts.

After the US recall, both MHRA and EMA have recalled all medication containing containing four other ‘sartans’, namely candesartan, irbesartan, losartan and olmesartan.  This precautionary recall has been announced because of the potential N-nitrosodiethylamine (NDEA) contamination.

The Risk of Getting Cancer from These Medicines

According to the findings of all 3 agencies, the risk of getting cancer from using Valsartan is small since the NDMA discovered in the medicine only slightly exceeds the levels of acceptability.  According to the drug manufacturers’ records, this impurity might have been contained in Valsartan products since more than 4 years.

Investigations all over Europe have been initiated regarding this contamination.  According to the results so far, there hasn’t been any evidence indicating that any patients have been harmed and the agencies have stated that this contamination has not affected all of the sartan products.

What Should Blood Pressure Patients Relying on These Medications Do?

According to the medical experts, patients using these recalled drugs can continue taking them however, before doing so, it is highly recommended to consult your pharmacist or doctor immediately.  The threat of cancer from the contaminated batches of Valsartan and other sartans might be low as compared to the threat of not using them at all.

It is best to request your doctor to suggest an alternative.  These nationwide recalls have made it difficult to find Valsartan medicines in the market meaning that whether you want to use this drug or not, you might have no other choice but to use alternative blood pressure medications.   Therefore, ensure that you consult your doctor immediately before you switch to another medication or completely stop using it.

6 Foods That Lower Blood Pressure

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High blood pressure or hypertension is the increased amount of blood pressure against your arteries.  With time, elevated blood pressure can damage your blood vessels and lead to a stroke, kidney disease, heart disease and other health serious issues.  Hypertension is also referred as a silent killer since it doesn’t have any unique symptoms and can go untreated for years.

There are certain risk factors not under your control, including gender, family history and age; however, there are still various risk factors that you can control, including diet and exercise.  Changes in your diet can drastically decrease high blood pressure.  There are various foods that can help in lowering your blood pressure, including the following:

1.   Berries

Strawberries and blueberries include anthocyanins, which are antioxidant compounds that help to lower the blood pressure.  Studies have shown that the intake of a high amount of anthocyanins can reduce the risk of hypertension by 8% as compared to a low anthocyanin intake diet.  Eat berries as dessert, a snack, or add them in a salad, oatmeal or smoothies.

2.   Fenugreek Leaves and Seeds

Fenugreek seeds and leaves are loaded with a high amount of soluble fiber, which aids in decreasing cholesterol level.  A diet that is high in fiber has been linked to steady levels of blood pressure.  Fenugreek seeds and leaves contain low levels of sodium.
However, keep in mind that while fenugreek is efficient in lowering blood pressure, it can also reduce your blood sugar, which means it is best not to consume it every day.

3.   Beetroot

Beetroot includes a high amount of nitric oxide which helps to open up the blood vessels and lower blood pressure.  Studies have found that nitrates in beetroot juice lowered blood pressure of participants in merely 24 hours.  It is therefore best to include beets in your diet by making beet juice, cooking the whole beetroot or eating it in salads.  It also tastes delicious when added in stews or stir-fries and when roasted or baked.

4. Leafy Green Vegetables

Loaded with nitrates, leafy green vegetables also help lower blood pressure levels.  Studies have suggested that consuming two servings of nitrate-rich vegetables daily can decrease hypertension.
The leafy greens you can include in your diet are:

  • Swiss chard
  • Spinach
  • Mustard greens
  • Kale
  • Fennel
  • Lettuce
  • Collard greens
  • Cabbage

In order to consume the daily requirement of leafy greens, you can eat baked kale chips, add a side dish of sautéed Swiss chard and garlic to your main meal, add vegetables in stews and curries, or make a salad of raw leafy greens.

5. Salmon

Fresh fish is one of the best sources of omega-3 fatty acids and lean protein.  Salmon contains vitamin D, which has been reported to lower levels of blood pressure.  You can replace trans and saturated fats like fried foods and fatty beef with a serving of salmon weekly.

Just this simple swap once a week helps to reduce inflammation, lower arterial plaque buildup, and decrease triglycerides – all of these being the biggest contributors to heart disease.

6. Dark Chocolate

A piece of dark chocolate is effective in lowering high blood pressure.  Studies have suggested that chocolate rich in cocoa can help to reduce high levels of blood pressure in individuals with prehypertension or hypertension.

Make sure you select high quality chocolate, which includes at least 70% cocoa.  Eat one square or a 1oz piece every day.

A healthy diet and regular exercise can drastically decrease the risk of high blood pressure.  Start including these six foods that help in lowering blood pressure to maintain a stable blood pressure.  Other foods that lower blood pressure include various spices, herbs, lentils, nuts, oats and other vegetables and fruits.  Make sure you consult your doctor in case of any doubts or for more health tips in reducing your blood pressure.

Can Atrial Fibrillation Cause Dementia?

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New evidence from recent research studies suggests that Atrial Fibrillation can put patients above 40 at the risk of dementia.  In Atrial Fibrillation, the heart’s upper chamber beats irregularly, leading to an abnormal heart rhythm and decreased blood flow.  The ineffective pumping of the heart causes blood clots, which can further lead to a stroke and dementia (cognitive decline).

Research studies have proven that the compromised blood flow due to Atrial Fibrillation affects the brain in numerous ways.  The beat-by-beat differences in the flow of blood to the brain negatively impacts brain functioning.  The irregular heartbeat causes blood to pool in the heart, which forms clots.  These clots have the tendency to travel to the brain and then get lodged in blood vessels, thus affecting cognition in more subtle ways.

The clots in the blood vessels can be detected initially from symptoms, such as sudden and small strokes, which may go undetected and unnoticed by the patient but over time, such activities can affect cognitive abilities in a more serious way.  The damage to the brain can add up, resulting in dementia.

Another way Atrial Fibrillation causes brain damage is the way it alters the blood flow through the body.  It disrupts the blood brain barrier.  This is a membrane that is responsible for separating blood from cerebrospinal fluid.  It also filters blood that comes in and out from the brain and to the spinal cord.  The disruption causes neuro-specific molecules to enter the bloodstream, thus resulting in brain damage and cognition decline.

Researchers at the Stockholm University, one of Europe’s leading centres for higher education and research in science, and Karolinska Institute, one of the world’s foremost medical universities, conducted a study1J Alzheimers Dis. 2018;61(3):1119-1128. doi: 10.3233/JAD-170575. in which they collected data of 2,685 participants above the age of 73.  These participants were followed for a period of 6 years. None of the participants had dementia at baseline, however with age, 9% of them were diagnosed with Atrial Fibrillation and over the follow up period 15% of them were diagnosed with dementia.  The study concluded that aging people with Atrial Fibrillation had a 40% higher risk of developing dementia than those without.  It also confirmed that patients with Atrial Fibrillation who took blood thinners to prevent blood clots were able to counteract the risk of developing dementia in comparison to the patients who were not on medication.

Blood thinners or anticoagulants not only protect patients from major strokes but also from long-term cognitive decline.  They should however, be taken in moderation and as prescribed by a doctor because some studies also indicate that high dosage of blood thinning medication can cause micro-bleeds in the brain.  Treatment plans need to be adjusted periodically to ensure that the dosage of blood thinner is sufficient, thereby protecting the affected individual’s heart and brain.

Depression can put you at a Higher Risk of Atrial Fibrillation

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Atrial Fibrillation is a heart rhythm disorder that accounts for 20% to 30% of all strokes.  It is also among the top causes of premature deaths in women.  Studies show that nearly 120,000 people are being diagnosed with Atrial Fibrillation annually.  Most of them complain of experiencing the following signs and symptoms:

  • Fatigue
  • Palpation
  • Weakness
  • Dizziness
  • Chest pain and
  • Shortness of breath.

In this condition, the atria or the upper two chambers of the heart start to beat chaotically or irregularly, and out of coordination with the ventricles (the heart’s lower two chambers).  Over time, Atrial Fibrillation can lead to blood clot formation in the heart, which may then circulate to other body organs and block the flow of blood, thereby resulting in stroke and sudden death.

Though many causes have been identified for the possibility of developing Atrial Fibrillation such as sinus syndrome, viral infections, sleep apnea, exposure to stimulants (caffeine and alcohol), stress, abnormal heart valves, and high blood pressure, recent studies have proven that depression is also a contributing factor.

Preliminary research reports published by leading sources in the field such as the European Journal of Preventive Cardiology and the American Heart Association, have proven that depression is strongly linked to Atrial Fibrillation.  Taking into consideration the study1Fenger-Grøn, M., Vestergaard, M., Pedersen, H. S., Frost, L., Parner, E. T., Ribe, A. R., & Davydow, D. S. (2019). Depression, antidepressants, and the risk of non-valvular atrial fibrillation: A nationwide Danish matched cohort study. European Journal of Preventive Cardiology, 26(2), 187–195. https://doi.org/10.1177/2047487318811184 published by the European Journal of Preventive Cardiology, research investigated the association of depression and antidepressants with Atrial Fibrillation in patients.  The study was conducted over a span of 13 years from 2000 to 2013 on the Danish population.  The risk of Atrial Fibrillation was assessed before and after starting the treatment for depression.

It was observed that the condition of Atrial Fibrillation was 7.65 fold higher and more common in patients with depression before they started taking antidepressants.  Furthermore, it was assessed that patients on antidepressants had nearly a 3.18 fold higher risk of developing Atrial Fibrillation during the first month of their treatment.  The association did however, gradually lower thereafter to roughly 1.37 fold by 6 months and 1.11 fold by 12 months.

The study concluded that depression can place an individual at a higher risk of developing Atrial Fibrillation, if treatment is not sought immediately.  In addition, antidepressant medication is not linked with the development of Atrial Fibrillation, contrary to what many assumed.  Make sure to visit your doctor for a full check-up and seek proper treatment for depression to minimise your risk of Atrial Fibrillation.

Study Reveals Blue Light is as Beneficial as Medication in Decreasing Blood Pressure

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Did you know that light plays a major role in our circadian system?  It regulates our circadian system by communicating with our eye’s light sensitive cells, which then signals the body clock of our brain.  This is how your body knows what time it is so that your organs work accordingly.  These sensitive cells are even more sensitive to blue light.  Recently, it was discovered that blue light helps in decreasing blood pressure.

It has become a known fact that blood pressure stays low during summer months as compared to the winter months.  A recent study examined the impact of blue light on blood pressure and revealed surprising results.  There are numerous health benefits of blue light exposure, including an impact on high blood pressure.  The positive impact of blue light has been found to be as effective as any other hypertension medication available on the market today.

Blue Light And Blood Pressure

The study1Stern, M., Broja, M., Sansone, R., Gröne, M., Skene, S. S., Liebmann, J., … Heiss, C. (2018). Blue light exposure decreases systolic blood pressure, arterial stiffness, and improves endothelial function in humans. European Journal of Preventive Cardiology, 25(17), 1875–1883. https://doi.org/10.1177/2047487318800072, published in the European Journal of Preventive Cardiology, reveals that blue light exposure is an effective treatment for lowering your blood pressure and simultaneously decreasing the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
The participants in this study were exposed to the blue light for 30 minutes, followed by control light exposure on a different day.  The researchers examined the blood vessel dilation, arteries stiffness, blood pressure, and nitric oxide’s blood plasma levels of the participants during, before and after the exposure of both lights.

They found that whole body exposure to blue light drastically lowered the levels of blood pressure of the participants by around 8 mmHg. There was however, no impact on the blood pressure levels with the controlled light exposure.

Health Benefits of Blue Light

Aside from lowering the systolic blood pressure, exposure to blue light offers numerous health benefits, including the following:

  • Decrease in the stiffness of arteries.  The participants in the study experienced lowered pulse wave velocity and lowered forearm vascular resistance.
  • Enhanced flow of blood.  The participants in the study experienced an increase in flow-mediated dilation and forearm blood flow – the former refers to the artery’s capacity of widening in reaction to the increase in the flow of blood.
  • Encouragement of nitric oxide release.  The participants in the study showcased enhanced nitric oxide circulation and concentrations of nitroso species in their plasma.  Remarkably, the systolic blood pressure reduction after light exposure for 30 minutes was linked to the plasma nitroso species changes.

The best part is that all these health benefits of blue light exposure come with no side effects that have been linked to blood pressure medications2N Engl J Med 2015; 373:2103-2116, DOI: 10.1056/NEJMoa1511939.  The light exposure levels in the study have been rather realistic and almost the same as the exposure you get during a typical sunny day.  Indeed, you would have to regularly experience the exposure to blue light in order to enjoy these health benefits long-term.

It is not unrealistic to assume that regular exposure to blue light, along with the consumption of healthy and antihypertensive foods like olive oil and cherries can result in making a major impact on the high blood pressure levels.

A Plan of Action is Needed to Prevent Atrial Fibrillation Strokes in Europe

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The increasing number of cases related to strokes caused by atrial fibrillation is alarming for the European healthcare industry. Clinical studies suggest that individuals suffering from atrial fibrillation are 3 to 5 times at risk of suffering from a stroke; and that a quarter of middle-aged adults will at some stage of their life develop atrial fibrillation.

Currently, strokes caused by atrial fibrillation are estimated to cost European countries €38 billion annually. This is because they are more difficult to manage as compared to non-atrial fibrillation related strokes.

Strokes caused by atrial fibrillation have a high mortality rate and are becoming increasingly common in today’s aging population.  It is estimated that by 2060 over 18 million adults in Europe over the age of 55 will have atrial fibrillation.  Based on this information, a plan of action needs to be prepared to prevent atrial fibrillation strokes in Europe.  Policymakers and stakeholders must work unanimously and at all levels to address this growing health issue and prevent its prevalence.

A white paper released by Arrhythmia Alliance  in 2018 highlights the inequalities and gaps that persist in the community, which is giving rise to atrial fibrillation-related strokes.  The white paper also offers driven solutions that can lower the risk of strokes in people with atrial fibrillation.

The paper identifies some areas of concern that have led to the escalating number of cases pertaining to atrial fibrillation-related strokes.  It suggests that newly diagnosed patients with atrial fibrillation lack knowledge and information about their condition, which negatively impacts both their health and experience of care.

Another area of concern is insufficient atrial fibrillation detection practices in care settings.  Care settings don’t offer proper screening facilities to patients to help them minimise the risk of developing atrial fibrillation.  The condition is only detected after the patient has suffered from a stroke related to atrial fibrillation.

Apart from this, as professionals have limited understanding of and training in, atrial fibrillation, they are unable to support the needs of patients adequately.  Healthcare professionals face difficulties in atrial fibrillation detection. They have problems in both using and interpreting risk assessment scores.  The lack of clinical training and understanding in atrial fibrillation limits professionals from providing excellent level of support and care to patients, which is crucial to ensure their fast recovery.

Awareness and accountability among policy and decision-makers is crucial.  At present, strokes caused by atrial fibrillation are under-represented in policy, which further contributes to inequalities.  A national plan targeting the prevention of atrial fibrillation must be devised to reduce the staggering number of cases.

For more information on this and to learn about the suggested solutions to all these areas of concerns, download the white paper by Arrhythmia Alliance on Inequalities and Unmet Needs in the Detection of Atrial Fibrillation (AF) and use of Therapies to Prevent AF‑Related Stroke in Europe or the report by AF Association on AF Association Healthcare Pioneers Report Showcasing Best Practice in Atrial Fibrillation 2019.

Arrythmia Alliance White Paper

Inequalities and unmet needs in the detection of Atrial Fibrillation (AF) and use of therapies to prevent  AF‑related stroke in Europe

AF Association Report

Pioneers report showcasing best practice in Atrial Fibrillation 2019

400km Above the Earth’s Surface

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A&D’s Blood Pressure Monitor on the International Space Station

A&D’s technology helps build power stations, bullet trains and rockets but our Upper Arm Blood Pressure Monitors unit may be A&D’s first product to leave the stratosphere.  If the ISS relies on the high performance, reliability and accuracy of A&D’s blood pressure monitoring technology, then so can you!

In this Russian documentary, cosmonaut Sergey Volkov is using an A&D BPM to monitor his blood pressure (starting at time stamp 4:50) as part of regular health checks performed daily.

This activity was part of a yearlong mission aboard the ISS in 2016 to research the medical, psychological and biomedical challenges faced by space explorers during long-duration spaceflight.

A&D UA-767S Upper Arm Blood Pressure Monitor

The UA-767S is the latest in the range of UA-767 devices from A&D – our flagship model since 1985.

It benefits from our 2nd generation IHB technology, which now measures the frequency of IHB (Irregular Heart Beat) detection as well as screening for Atrial Fibrillation – shown by icons and divided into different grades. This now enables the user/clinician to see how often IHB/AFib has been detected – indicating the level of risk to the patient. If the grade is high, you should consult a doctor immediately.

Features:

  • 3rd generation of the flagship UA-767 range
  • A&D’s Slimfit™ Cuff – latex and metal free, covering 22-32cm
  • 2nd generation IHB/AFib (Irregular Heart Beat) Indicator to show frequency IHB/AFib%
  • Cuff Fit Error Indicator
  • Movement Error Indicator
  • WHO Blood Pressure Classification Indicator
  • 60-memory + Average Reading
  • ESH Clinical Validation

Causes of High Blood Pressure

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High blood pressure is a serious health issue and is now becoming more common and a growing concern in the United Kingdom.

This is clearly evident from the following facts and statistics published by Public Health England:

  • High blood pressure affects nearly 1 in 4 individuals,
  • It is the third-biggest risk factor for premature deaths and disability, after smoking, in England,
  • At least ½ of all the cardiac arrests and strokes are linked with high blood pressure,
  • It is also among the major risk factors for developing chronic kidney diseases and dementia, Over 5.5 million individuals in England have undiagnosed high BP and remain untreated, thereby putting their lives at serious risk.

High blood pressure is estimated to affect over 1.5 billion individuals worldwide by the year 2025.

What is High Blood Pressure?

High blood pressure, occurs when the pressure of your blood is persistently higher than the pressure that is considered normal. The optimal blood pressure rate is under 120/80mmHg.  Readings above this range (for example, 130-139/80-89) are considered as stage 1 high blood pressure, while stage 2 is 140 and above/90 and above.

Blood Pressure Chart

Blood Pressure Chart

High blood pressure can be dangerous because the heart has to work harder to pump blood to the body and further leads to hardening of the arteries, thereby increasing the risk of developing a stroke and heart failure.  Although the exact causes of high blood pressure are still unknown, there are many factors linked to it.  These factors are believed to have a strong influence on blood pressure, thereby increasing the likelihood of developing the condition.

Age

It is estimated that approximately 1 in 2 individuals over 65 have high blood pressure.  This indicates that you may be exposed to the risk of high blood pressure as you age.

Family History

Studies also show that family history also increases the risk of high blood pressure.  So, if high blood pressure tends to run in your family then it’s important that you closely monitor yours and manage it proactively to reduce the chances of developing it in the future.

Obesity

It is believed that people who are overweight or obese can develop high blood pressure.  This is backed by the fact that as your weight increases, more blood is needed by your body to supply nutrients and oxygen to the tissues. So, when the volume of blood circulation through the vessels shoots up, so does the pressure on the walls of your arteries.

A Diet Rich in Sodium and Poor in Potassium

Your diet also influences your blood pressure level. If your diet is rich in sodium and has very little potassium, it can increase your likelihood of developing high blood pressure.  This is because sodium causes the body to retain fluid, while potassium helps balance the amount of salt in the cells.  So, if your diet has too much salt and little potassium, you will retain and accumulate salt in the blood, thereby putting you at risk of high blood pressure.

Other potential causes include:

  • High alcohol intake,
  • Stress,
  • Minimal physical activity, and
  • Frequent use of tobacco.

To lower the risk of developing high blood pressure, monitor and manage your blood pressure at home yourself. Consider investing in a high quality home blood pressure monitoring machine, such as A&D’s UA-651BLE Upper Arm Blood Pressure Monitor with Smart Bluetooth Low Energy Connectivity to check your blood pressure daily.  It is easy to use, and offers reliable and accurate reading.  Also, seek proper treatment and adopt a healthy lifestyle to minimize your risk.

A&D UA-651BLE Upper Arm Blood Pressure Monitor with Bluetooth® Smart Bluetooth® Low Energy Connectivity

The UA-651BLE is the 4th generation of the range of A&D telehealth blood pressure monitors, and is designed for the home user as part of the ‘wellness connected™’ family of products and free app, A&D Connect.

Features:

  • 4th gen. blood pressure monitor telehealth range
  • Bluetooth® Version 4.0LE/ Bluetooth® Smart communication
  • Continua™ Certified – to ensure interoperability
  • Compatible with UC-352BLE scales and UT-201BLE thermometer
  • A&D’s Slimfit™ Cuff 22-32cm
  • 2nd gen. IHB Indicator
  • WHO Blood Pressure Class.Indicator
  • Internal 30-memory + Average Reading
  • ESH Clinical Validation

Saving time with the Wellpoint Kiosk

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The consulting time of medical specialists at the University Hospital Antwerp has been fundamentally improved over the past two years. The screening of blood pressure, heart rate, height, weight, BMI and temperature is no longer done by a doctor, nurse or clinician but by the patient himself.  This has been possible thanks to the WellPoint Kiosk featuring the A&D TM-2657P Waiting Room Monitor.  Professor Dr. Guy Hans, medical director of the University Hospital talks more about it.

The WellPoint Kiosk is a collection of devices with which the patient can independently measure his/her vital parameters, such as blood pressure, heart rate, weight and temperature.  In addition, the patient can provide the healthcare professional with other clinically desired information by completing personal validated questionnaires for pre-screening and risk assessment.  The results are immediately passed to the Electronic Medical Record (EMR) and therefore do not have to be entered manually, saving time and reducing data entry errors.  Healthcare professionals can immediately discuss the results with the patient during consultation hours.

At UZA, there are six of these kiosks embedded in the hospital flow.  Plans for further expansion contain the integration of this kiosk to keep the patient flow within the hospital as efficient as possible.

“The decision to work with this kiosk stems from the accreditation requirements set by JCI” says Professor Hans. “When we were working on accreditation to comply with the JCI quality standard for safe and quality care1, it became clear that we had a problem: we did not have the minimal clinical data of patients required”

This is a problem that is not unique to UZA. According to Professor Hans, many hospitals do not have this minimal set of patient data.

“In order to meet the quality standards for accreditation of JCI, UZA went in search of a solution to gather this patient data on a wide scale. We found this in the WellPoint Kiosk.”

Working with the kiosk has several advantages according Professor Hans.

“Thanks to the kiosk, we receive the results of the vital parameters from every patient who comes here during consultation hours. In this way, the physician has an up-to-date and accurate ‘snapshot’ of the patient’s physical condition during the consultation. Another important advantage is time saving; care providers do not have to take measurements manually anymore. That saves about 6 minutes per patient. Multiplied by the tens of thousands of patients who visit the UZA every year … that time saving is therefore enormous”.

Professor Hans emphasizes that UZA uses the time gained to optimize and improve the quality of care rather than to reduce costs.

Professor Hans commented that the quality of the consultation hours has greatly improved thanks to the kiosk.

“As soon as the patient enters my office, I have the vital parameters needed to start the conversation.  In addition, the kiosk is a great tool for working on primary prevention. We often see patients who have no symptoms but with this standard screening process, an increased blood pressure or a deviation in, for example the heart rate, is noticed.  If the doctor suspects abnormal / concerning results, he can immediately take action, consider referral to a specialist or back to the GP.  In particular, from a preventive point of view, the Kiosk is a particularly valuable addition to the care we provide as UZA.  Its something we couldn’t do without!”

1 https://www.jointcommissioninternational.org/

TM-2657P Waiting Room Blood Pressure Monitor

The TM-2657P is the latest model in the range of A&D freestanding fully automatic blood pressure monitors. Designed for high foot fall areas to save time and money offering a Return on Investment (ROI) normally within 6 months.

Features:

  • Can be integrated into Electronic Patient Record solution (EPR)
  • User-friendly small footprint & barrier-free design
  • Simple to use, one-touch measurement
  • Network connectivity options using Bluetooth or RS-232
  • Reliable high speed printer with easy paper replacement
  • Irregular Heart Beat (IHB) indicator
  • BHS A/A Clinically Validated