Sleep apnea is a prevalent and serious condition where a person’s breathing intermittently stops during sleep, impacting over 1 billion individuals worldwide. If left untreated, this disorder can result in high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, and heart-related problems.
Apple Watch's New Feature
As of September 26, 2024, Apple’s sleep apnea notification feature has received certification from Health Canada. This feature will be available on the Apple Watch Series 10 (currently priced at $419 on Amazon), Ultra 2, and Series 9 (currently priced at $329 on Amazon). Earlier this month, the FDA also approved this feature. It utilizes the watch's accelerometer to monitor subtle wrist movements, helping to identify possible breathing issues. The watch evaluates data every 30 days and notifies users if it detects consistent signs of moderate to severe sleep apnea.
Advanced Health Monitoring
In addition to sleep apnea detection, the latest Apple Watch models come with sophisticated health sensors, including a blood oxygen monitor, an ECG app, and notifications for irregular heart rhythms. These devices are capable of tracking respiratory rates, different sleep stages, and heart rate variability, serving as comprehensive health companions right on your wrist. The watches also feature fall detection and emergency SOS capabilities, enhancing safety for those with health concerns or the elderly.
A Multifunctional Health Device
The combination of these health monitoring features, along with Health Canada’s certification, positions the Apple Watch as one of the top smartwatches available today. It has evolved beyond just a smartwatch into a versatile health management device. The sleep apnea feature is set to launch in over 150 countries by the end of this month.
