New York-based designer Hussain Almossawi has created a smart ring for people with sickle cell disease that allows them to monitor and detect low blood oxygen levels.
Called Oxygem, the wearable technology features a minimal design and an interface that changes colour from blue to red to indicate the amount of oxygen saturation in the blood.
Sickle cell disease is a genetic disease where deformed red blood cells stick together and block oxygen from flowing through the body. This can lead to intense pain and organ damage.
Oxygem measures the level of oxygen in the user's bloodstream using built-in sensors that alert the patient with updates on the ring interface and corresponding phone app. In cases of emergency, the device is programmed to notify local ambulance services to the whereabouts of the wearer.
The product allows people with sickle cell disease to self-monitor the levels of oxygen in their blood, reducing the risk of infections and death.