A preliminary study from University of Toronto researchers indicates that a cell phone telemonitoring program can help individuals with diabetes control their blood pressure, HealthDay reports.
For the study, a cell phone monitoring system:
Captured measurements of at-home blood pressure tests;
Transmitted the data wirelessly using Bluetooth technology; and
Received responses indicating whether patients needed medical attention.
After one year, 37% of patients were able to improve control of their blood pressure, compared with 14.2% of patients using traditional blood pressure monitoring equipment.
Additional Features
The system also allows physicians to check patient readings online. In addition, doctors are notified if averages from a three-day or two-week period go beyond a specified average.
Researchers will continue the telemonitoring study to determine what features of the system are responsible for the improvements (Mozes, HealthDay, 11/17).
