4 Smithfield Street, 12th Floor, Pittsburgh, PA 15222 P. 412.288.9901 F. 412.288.9902
May 17, 2001
(Pittsburgh) - Researchers at UPMC Health System's Western Psychiatric Institute and Clinic (WPIC) soon will begin a series of studies to test a new, wearable medical device that will allow them to monitor participants' vital signs as they go about their daily activities.
SenseWear™, developed by Pittsburgh-based BodyMedia, Inc., may offer scientists and study participants an entirely new way to record and analyze everything from sleep patterns and blood pressure to adherence to obesity programs remotely, offering far more flexibility and convenience than equipment that cannot leave the lab.
"BodyMedia's innovative technologies provide yet another foray into the research and treatment of affective disorders. BodyMedia's commitment to wellness and health management complements our extensive diagnosis and treatment services. We are fortunate to have access to such novel scientific applications," said David Kupfer, M.D., medical director of WPIC.
UPMC will test BodyMedia's SenseWear in a number of clinical trials overseen by Dr. Kupfer. SenseWear is worn by the user on an adjustable armband and keeps track of vital signs, sleep cycles, calories burned and relaxation response. Data is downloaded wirelessly from the armband to a personal computer or other device.
"BodyMedia's technology will help us move our research out of the laboratory and into the community," said Dr. Kupfer. "SenseWear will give us the ability to get information from study participants we could previously get only in a lab. The technology will allow us to conduct large public health studies at less cost and may prove to be very useful for chronic disease research and management."
As part of a three-year agreement, UPMC Health System and BodyMedia will collaborate on clinical research and UPMC will provide financial sponsorship with the goal of obtaining FDA approvals for products and services related to sleep disorders, treatment compliance, obesity management, rehabilitation and pain management and fertility assessment and management.
This extensive collaboration signifies UPMC's strong support and belief in BodyMedia and its system designed to help people live a balanced and healthy lifestyle. Both UPMC and BodyMedia are based in Pittsburgh, a growing hub for medical and biotech industries.
"UPMC is a world-class research institution with a history of identifying ground-breaking medical technologies. It is a real honor to be associated with UPMC. This relationship will support and accelerate BodyMedia's entry into new markets," said Dr. Astro Teller, BodyMedia's CEO.
UPMC Health System is affiliated with the University of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences and is the leading integrated health care delivery system in western Pennsylvania. It meets comprehensive health care needs through UPMC hospitals - the region's largest network of tertiary, specialty, and community hospitals - and by offering a variety of health-related services and products. With more than 25,000 employees, UPMC is the largest non-governmental employer in the region. In addition, it is one of the largest not-for-profit integrated health care systems in the United States. For more information about UPMC Health System, please see http://www.upmc.edu.
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About BodyMedia, Inc.