Neuroscience group Cambridge Cognition Holdings PLC (LON:COG) said that results from a new technology feasibility study demonstrated for the first time that wearable consumer devices can be used clinically to measure cognitive performance accurately when programmed with the Cognition Kit software
The study showed that wearable tech such as the Apple Watch and Microsoft Band can be used to in conjunction with the group’s software to assess brain health.
A joint venture between Cambridge Cognition and research agency Ctrl Group, the Cognition Kit software was developed to address the growing need for accurate measurement of the brain during treatment.
The technology enables doctors, scientists and patients to better understand and manage day-to-day brain health by measuring the key biological and psychological factors affecting mental performance accurately in real time said the group.
Mental health conditions are among the leading causes of disability worldwide. The World Health Organization estimates that more than 450mln people are living with mental illnesses, the cost of treatment and care to global economies will double by 2030 to over US$6trln.
The market for wearable mental health monitoring is estimated to be worth around US$2bn.
"This proof of concept study demonstrates for the first time that these consumer devices are enabling the rapid and accurate collection of largescale scientific datasets,” said director of research and development Francesca Cormack.
“This not only allows dramatically more detailed knowledge of moment-by-moment brain function but also opens up new possibilities to develop machine learning algorithms that will enable earlier detection and intervention in brain disorders.”