FDA Approves Apple Watch for Sleep Apnea Risk Assessment

FDA Approves Apple Watch for Sleep Apnea Risk Assessment

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has officially approved Apple Watch’s new feature that helps assess the risk of sleep apnea, a common but often undiagnosed condition where breathing is repeatedly interrupted during sleep. The feature, which is now available on the Apple Watch Series 9 and Watch Ultra 2, leverages the watch’s accelerometer to monitor subtle wrist movements that may indicate irregular breathing patterns during sleep.

Although the Apple Watch is not intended to diagnose sleep apnea, it provides users with an over-the-counter tool to identify potential risks and encourage further medical evaluation. The data collected is analyzed using an advanced machine-learning algorithm, which was developed based on clinical sleep apnea tests. Users can track their “breathing disturbances” in the Health app, and if significant irregularities are detected, the watch will alert the user to seek consultation with a healthcare professional. The Health app also allows users to generate detailed reports that can be shared with doctors for further analysis.

This feature builds on Apple’s broader initiative to integrate health-focused functionalities into its wearable devices, offering accessible health monitoring tools. In conjunction with the recent FDA approval for AirPods Pro 2’s hearing aid functionality, Apple continues to position its devices as innovative alternatives to traditional medical equipment, targeting consumers interested in proactive health management.

Apple’s move into the sleep apnea market is significant, as millions worldwide suffer from the condition, yet many remain undiagnosed due to the sporadic nature of the symptoms. This new feature could play a crucial role in early detection, helping to mitigate the long-term risks associated with untreated sleep apnea, such as heart disease and diabetes.