Description of Session
Anemia is one of the largest health problems around the world, and a key risk factor for maternal mortality. Approximately one-third of the world’s population is clinically anemic. International agencies and governments are trying hard to provide iron supplementation without any regular screening or monitoring at the community level. Timely screening and treatment can restore personal health and avoid risk of other complications. This study describes the development and testing of non-invasive hemoglobin monitor designed by Tech4Life Enterprises. The device uses integrated innovation, comprising of technological and social innovations, to monitor anemia in the communities. Research design and methods: This non-invasive device uses Near Infrared lights source to detect hemoglobin in bloodstream, using the index finger for the source and receiver placement in order to predict the hemoglobin value. A double-blinded clinical trial was conducted at a large teaching hospital and a clinical laboratory in Karachi, Pakistan, to compare the results of non-invasive monitoring against the laboratory testing of hemoglobin for measuring the accuracy of the devices. Main outcome measures: Accuracy of Non-invasive hemoglobin monitoring compared to the laboratory testing of hemoglobin. Results: The results showed 92% accuracy of non-invasive monitor (difference of less than 20% compared to lab testing), with 89% sensitivity and 76% specificity. While the accuracy was similar among women and men (91% vs. 94% respectively), sensitivity was higher among women (91% vs. 74%). Conclusion: Non-invasive hemoglobin monitor has shown high degree of accuracy against the gold-standard in the initial clinical trial. Further validation is being conducted in partnership with organizations in different parts of the world.
