With the way that technology is constantly evolving at such a quick pace, many incredible health devices have recently been invented with the purposes of saving and improving lives. We’ve already been exposed to multiple extraordinary health technologies in 2018, and there is plenty to look forward to.
Thanks to the improvements made in the medical field, the worldwide average lifespan has improved from 52.5 years in 1960 to 71.8 years in 2015. The following are some examples of recent health technology devices that will have a huge impact on many people this year – and that may even help to continue increasing the average lifespan.
1. Oska Pulse
Oska Pulse is a $399 (£295) device that came out in 2016, but is incorporating an app to improve its benefits in 2018. This wearable tool uses a pulsed electromagnetic field to alleviate chronic pain. The Pulse enlarges blood vessels, therefore increasing blood flow and diminishing inflammation. The new app that Oska introduced this year tracks the progress of pain relief. With this app, users will not only feel the relief, but they’ll be able to see the results as well. The app will be available this spring for both iOS and Android.
2. Nima Peanut Sensor
According to the Peanut Institute, 0.6%-1% of people have a peanut allergy. These allergies range from mild reactions, such as hives and a runny nose, to severe reactions that can even result in death. The Nima Peanut Sensor tests food for any traces of peanuts to keep the user safe from a potential allergic reaction. In order to check food for peanuts, simply put a pea-sized sample into the capsule, insert the capsule into the device, and push start. The sensor will take a few minutes and will then show a smiley face if the food is peanut-free or a peanut icon if there are peanut traces found. Packaged food includes disclaimers regarding peanuts, but the Nima Peanut Sensor also allows consumers to check home-made or restaurant-made food that might have been cross-contaminated without the chef realizing. Nima Peanut Sensors are available for $289 (£235).
3. Quartz Bottle
The Quartz Bottle is a purifying water bottle currently available for pre-order on Indiegogo for $79 (£64) each, to be shipped in March and April of this year. This bottle self-cleans, purifies water and has double insulation to keep its contents either cold or hot. People who drink out of reusable water bottles often complain that they become moldy as a result of being difficult to clean, so the Quartz Bottle was created to remedy this issue. It’s 10,000 times more hygienic than typical water bottles. Another amazing ability of the bottle is that it purifies its contents in just one minute. This feature is a huge step forward, since it will allow users to drink water that previously would have been unsafe to drink. All they have to do is fill the Quartz Bottle, press the button on top and wait 60 seconds for it to purify.
4. Modius
Modius is a completely new concept created to speed up metabolism and help users decrease body fat. The device is a headset to be worn a few hours each week. According to the Modius Health website, this device targets the hypothalamus, which is the part of the brain that controls your metabolism, hunger and ability to exercise. This technology emits a low, electrical pulse to stimulate the hypothalamus. The creators designed this device to help those struggling to lose weight to overcome the dreaded weight loss plateau. Modius is currently available for $450 (£369).
5. Helite Hip’Air
Helite, an airbag technology company, has created the Hip’Air, a belt that protects seniors against hips injuries that result from falls. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention state that at least 300,000 seniors are hospitalized from hip fractures each year in the United States alone – a large majority of which are due to falling sideways. Hip fractures are a major setback in the life of a senior as they often limit mobility and autonomy. The belt uses multiple sensors to anticipate if a person is falling, then sets off the airbag before impact to absorb the shock from the fall nine times more effectively than an ordinary hip protector. The Hip’Air is currently available for pre-sale and will be shipped out in April 2018.
6. Omron HeartGuide
The HeartGuide fitness watch by Omron is a new device created to take blood pressure measurements easily. Omron has an app to go along with the HeartGuide that not only shows users their stats, but can send them to doctors, as well. Knowing blood pressure levels is crucial to assess risk of heart-related conditions. This unique smartwatch is set to release later this year for about $349 (£286).
It’s an exciting time we’re living in. As technology continues to advance, we can only expect further developments in the healthcare industry. Products like these have the potential to improve a great number of lives, and our capabilities will continue to grow.
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