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AHA Warns: Cuffless Blood Pressure Devices Not Yet Accurate for Medical Use

American Heart Association warns cuffless blood pressure devices like smartwatches lack accuracy for medical diagnosis. Learn why validation is crucial for hypertension care.

This news matters because inaccurate blood pressure readings from popular wearable devices like smartwatches and rings could lead to serious health risks, including misdiagnosis or inappropriate treatment for hypertension, which affects nearly half of U.S. adults. High blood pressure is a leading cause of heart attacks, strokes, and kidney disease, making reliable monitoring essential for prevention and management. The American Heart Association's warning highlights a critical gap between technological innovation and medical validation, urging consumers and healthcare providers to prioritize accuracy over convenience. As these devices become more widespread, understanding their limitations is vital to avoid false reassurance or unnecessary alarm, ensuring that advancements in digital health truly support, rather than undermine, cardiovascular care and public safety.