Today we tackle the world's biggest silent killer, hypertension, and explore how 22 years of research is transforming blood pressure monitoring from an occasional cuff squeeze into continuous, wearable insight. Sammi heads to Lausanne, Switzerland to sit down with Josep Solà, co-founder and CTO of Aktiia, the company behind Hilo, the world's first cuffless blood pressure monitoring bracelet.
Josep shares the personal family story that sparked his journey and explains why hypertension is called the silent killer; responsible for 10 million deaths annually, with nearly half of those affected completely unaware. He breaks down the limitations of traditional cuff-based monitoring, from the white coat effect to patient non-compliance, and reveals the optical sensor technology and AI models that power Hilo's continuous, cuffless readings.
Going deep on the science, they discuss the 22 years of research, 100+ scientific papers and 14 patents behind the technology, how the device captures up to 800 readings per month, and the striking data showing that app engagement directly correlates with blood pressure reduction. Josep explains where Hilo sits at the intersection of MedTech, wearables and longevity, how consumer demand is driving clinical adoption, and the company's recent US launch and NHS pilot ambitions.
Plus there's a look at what's next for Hilo; from screening tools for the masses to Joseph's dream of a global reduction in hypertension-related deaths by 2050.
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