Methods for measuring blood pressure have not changed much in the last 100 years, but researchers at Monash University say they are set to revolutionise the scene.

Dubbed ‘cuffless blood pressure estimation’, their innovative new device requires only a few small sensors to be placed on the body to measure blood pressure, rather than the inflating ‘cuff’ many are familiar with.

Melbourne biomedical engineer Associate Professor Mehmet Yuce says the device is user-friendly and convenient for patients, and offers the advantage of unobtrusive, continuous monitoring.

“Unlike current products, this cuffless blood pressure monitor is intended to be worn all the time, even while sleeping. The goal is to be able to provide monitoring for a continuous 24 hour period, and to be able to send that information to a doctor in real time,” Associate Professor Yuce said.

The market for ambulatory or “on-the-go” blood pressure monitoring is growing.

Associate Professor Yuce says it is exciting to respond to the high demand for a cuffless monitor, and hope to begin work on commercialising their product in the near future.

While Associate Professor Yuce’s team has patented the model, they are still working to develop the ground-breaking new concept from a lab-based setup to a wearable device.

Once finalised, the cuffless blood pressure estimation device will be easy to wear and, with wireless connectivity, will instantaneously communicate blood pressure results to doctors over the internet.

Researchers are confident that the device’s immediate and real-time communication of health data will improve health management practices and outcomes for patients and doctors.

The team says it is courting a number of industrial partnership options.