Samsung Electronics has disclosed clinical research results showing that the Galaxy Watch can be utilized to predict Vasovagal Syncope (VVS) early. The company confirmed the possibility of reducing secondary accidents, such as falls, by detecting risk signals before fainting occurs.
Samsung Electronics announced that the results of a study conducted jointly with Chung-Ang University Gwangmyeong Hospital were published in the latest issue of European Heart Journal - Digital Health, a digital health journal of the European Society of Cardiology. These results represent the first case proving the predictability of Vasovagal Syncope using a smartwatch.
Vasovagal syncope is a phenomenon where blood pressure drops rapidly due to excessive tension or stress, leading to a temporary loss of consciousness. In particular, it requires special caution as it can lead to secondary injuries such as fractures or cerebral hemorrhages caused by unexpected falls.
This study was conducted on 132 patients suspected of having vasovagal syncope. The research team had the patients wear the Galaxy Watch 6 and performed a head-up tilt table test. Heart Rate Variability (HRV) data was collected in real-time through the Photoplethysmogram (PPG) sensor of the Galaxy Watch 6 and analyzed using an Artificial Intelligence (AI) algorithm.
According to the company, the research results successfully predicted signs of vasovagal syncope approximately 5 minutes before occurrence with an accuracy of 84.6%. If the risk is detected before fainting, patients can secure enough “golden time” to take a safe posture themselves or request help from those around them.
Cho Jun-hwan, a professor of cardiology at Chung-Ang University Gwangmyeong Hospital, explained, “The lifetime cumulative prevalence of syncope reaches 40%, and one-third of these individuals experience recurrent syncope. Real-time detection of syncope risk will be of great help in preventing accidents for patients who find it difficult to perceive premonitory symptoms.”
Choi Jong-min, Vice President of the Digital Health Team at Samsung Electronics' MX Business Division, said, “This research is an example showing the possibility of shifting healthcare from post-management-centered to prevention-centered through wearable technology. Based on these research achievements, Samsung Electronics will strive to provide preventive healthcare solutions on the Galaxy Watch.”
Samsung Electronics plans to continue enhancing the health monitoring functions of wearable devices and expanding the digital health ecosystem by strengthening cooperation with major medical institutions in the future.
