Continuous SpO2-Monitoring Headband Is Acceptable for Military Operations

Normal blood oxygenation (SpO2) is important in the readiness of warfighters at high terrestrial altitudes and high-altitude parachuting operations. A hands-free SpO2 wearable with real-time alerting capability could allow for preventive actions before health or performance is compromised while not interfering with task performance.

Prototype headbands were constructed with an embedded sensor that assesses SpO2 and heart rate from the forehead by photoplethysmography. Volunteers (n = 13) wore 12 similarly constructed prototype headbands while completing five minutes of sitting and self-paced treadmill walking and running. Volunteers also completed free living activities for two hours. A survey (Likert-type and open-ended questions) was administered that assessed fit, comfort, impact on activities, impact on the head/body, durability, and overall acceptability.

Overall comfort was rated moderately comfortable: 5.8 ± 1.0; 7-point scale (1 = Very Uncomfortable, 7 = Extremely Comfortable). Open-ended responses revealed initial comfort was very comfortable, but after two hours the headband became slightly uncomfortable. When examining the impact on daily activities, a score of 5 = No Negative Impact and 4 = Slight Negative Impact, a rating of 4.7 ± 0.9 was seen. Headband was acceptable to wear for two hours or less, by 69% of volunteers.

Regarding operations at high terrestrial altitude, a USARIEM-patented algorithm that uses continuous SpO2 measures provides risk guidance on acute mountain sickness (AMS). Early treatment or actions will help prevent AMS. For the high-altitude jumpers, verification of a healthy SpO2 level before exiting the aircraft is necessary. For both cases the use of the SpO2 headband should lead to safer operations. However, for the wearable to be effective, it needs to be acceptable. These results illustrate that for short-term operations of 2 hours or less, it is acceptable.