Galaxy Watch users in the United States are set to receive an innovative health feature: Sleep Apnea Detection. This groundbreaking functionality has been integrated into the Samsung Health Monitor app following the received De Novo clearance by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA). With sleep apnea being one of the most prevalent sleep disorders, this feature aims to help users identify potential signs of Sleep Apnea, enhancing their overall health management.
Availability of Sleep Apnea Detection for Galaxy Watch in the US Slated for Q3 2024
Those hoping to utilize the Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) detection technology will require both a compatible Galaxy Watch and a Galaxy smartphone with the Samsung Health Monitor app. The feature is designed for individuals 22 years old and above. It enables them to track their sleep over two nights to check for indications of OSA, a condition that frequently remains unrecognized and untreated.
For an accurate analysis, users will need to record their sleep for two sessions, each lasting a minimum of four hours. These sessions are permitted to occur within a ten-day window. OSA is characterized by periods where a person’s breathing repeatedly stops during sleep, leading to potential oxygen deprivation. This may not only diminish sleep quality but also contribute to daytime fatigue. If OSA goes unaddressed, it could increase the risk of developing heart-related complications such as cardiac arrhythmia, coronary artery diseases, heart failure, hypertension, and even strokes.
Statistics from the National Sleep Foundation indicate that around 25% of men and 10% of women in the US may suffer from OSA. With the ability to detect such a condition, individuals can seek the necessary medical attention. Quality sleep is closely tied to overall physical and mental health, and Samsung’s addition of the Sleep Apnea Detection functionality to its Galaxy Watch series aligns with its goal to provide more comprehensive health monitoring capabilities. This feature is anticipated to become available to users in the US in the third quarter of 2024.
For a more visual understanding of the feature, users can check out the informational video available online.
