Beating stress through early detection

Effective stress management reduces the risk of heart attacks and cardiovascular diseases. It is therefore useful to take a proactive approach to effectively detect signs of stress early. 

At the 4th International Conference on Ambulatory Monitoring of Physical Activity and Movement (ICAMPAM) in June 2015, RP School of Sports and Health students and staff presented an algorithm that can be incorporated into wireless stress monitoring systems using pulse rate variability. The algorithm would allow users to measure their stress levels through a wearable technology and in turn prompt them to adopt early intervention measures. 

After further refinements, the technology which uses photoplethysmography was commercialised to KaHa, a Singapore-based startup in 2019. Plans are underway to incorporate this technology into their new product line.