Comparing the accuracy of wearable devices readings with cuff sphygmomanometers for blood pressure measurement: Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

Abstract

Abstract Wearable devices for BP measurement as an emerging technology for closer monitoring BP and achieving better BP control monitoring. However, the accuracy of wearable devices needs to be systematically validated and analyzed. This study aims to compare wearable device readings for BP measurement with those from cuff sphygmomanometers in prospective clinical studies, therefore, to determine whether wearable devices provide reliable and portable BP monitoring. The Web of Science, MEDLINE, Embase, Cochrane Library, and PubMed databases were searched from January 1, 1952 to October 8, 2021. Data were compiled from 21 articles comprising 897 participants. There was no significant difference between systolic and diastolic readings for wearable devices and cuff sphygmomanometers, with a combined mean difference of 0.58 mmHg (95% CI, -0.35 to 1.51; n = 21; I²=0%, P = 0.22) for SBP and − 0.33 mmHg (95% CI, -1.50 to 0.85; n = 19; I²=56%, P = 0.58) for DBP. The subgroup analysis showed that BP readings of wearable devices lower than cuff sphygmomanometers at the wrist site (-1.85mm Hg, 95% CI, -2.75 to -0.95; n = 11; I² = 10%, P༜0.05). Wearable device measurement for BP is comparable to the readings of cuff sphygmomanometers. Although the accuracy still should be improved, wearable device measurement may be a reliable and convenient approach for daily BP monitoring to improve BP control.