Multimodal Photoplethysmography-Based Approaches for Improved Detection of Hypertension

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Cardiovascular Health
• Wearable Technology

Background:

• Hypertension is a leading cause of mortality, often asymptomatic until irreversible organ damage occurs.
• Current blood pressure (BP) measurement methods lack continuous monitoring and noninvasive capabilities.
• Early detection and management of hypertension are crucial to prevent severe complications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review and summarize recent studies (2010-2019) combining photoplethysmography (PPG) with other biosignals for BP estimation.
• To analyze the strengths and weaknesses of current multi-modal biosignal approaches for BP measurement.
• To provide perspectives for future advancements in noninvasive BP monitoring technology.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of studies published between 2010 and 2019.
• Focus on research combining PPG with additional biosignals (e.g., electrocardiogram).
• Analysis of measurement accuracy, effective modality combinations, and technological success.

Main Results:

• Photoplethysmography (PPG) shows waveform similarities to arterial BP, making it suitable for BP estimation.
• Combining PPG with other biosignals, such as electrocardiograms, enables accurate pulse wave velocity (PWV) derivation.
• Recent developments in wearable devices incorporating PPG sensors demonstrate promising measurement accuracies for hypertension management.

Conclusions:

• Multi-modal sensing approaches, particularly those integrating PPG with other biosignals, offer a promising avenue for accurate, noninvasive, and continuous BP monitoring.
• Further research and development are needed to optimize these technologies for widespread clinical adoption and improved hypertension care.
• Effective combinations of modalities and successful technological advancements pave the way for better early diagnosis and management of hypertension.