These findings were revealed at UR's College of Medicine and Health Sciences (UR-CMHS) in Kigali on July 30, 2024. The technology is expected to provide substantial benefits to over two million Rwandans affected by hypertension.
The 'Heart Care@Home' technology is designed for early detection of blood pressure issues, enabling patients to self-monitor and reducing hospital queues, thereby easing the burden on those with limited resources.
The first phase of research, presented after two years of collaboration between UR and Ghent University, featured significant input from Rwandan health advisors who monitored participating patients.
Prof. Dr. Marc Twagirumukiza of Ghent University highlighted that the 'Heart Care@Home' technology could significantly reduce severe hypertension cases in Rwanda.
He noted, "This assists patients by minimizing hospital visits and improving medication adherence, ultimately enhancing the quality of care."
The technology was tested on 140 high blood pressure patients at Kibagabaga Hospital from May 24, 2024, to July 28, 2024, with twice-weekly measurements.
Nine community health workers collected and uploaded patient data into a system for doctors to review, enabling quick identification of deteriorating conditions and prompt phone consultations.
Among the 140 patients, seven had critically high blood pressure levels (Stage Three) requiring immediate attention. The data showed that five of these patients were not adhering to their medication, while the remaining two had underlying health issues.
Dr. Olive Mukeshimana emphasized the benefits of the 'Heart Care@Home' technology, noting it reduces the need for monthly hospital visits.
Community health worker Adélaïde Ugirase concurs that this system has greatly helped hypertensive patients to keep their health in check.
Juliette Gasana, a lecturer and researcher at the University of Rwanda, highlighted that the idea of this technology stemmed from recognizing the high prevalence of severe hypertension in Rwanda and the challenges in providing timely treatment.
Gasana explained that the research addressed the challenges hypertensive patients faced in accessing treatment, such as long distances and 30-day wait periods for follow-up visits.
The aim is to enable more frequent blood pressure measurements and keep doctors informed without the lengthy wait.
Conducted in collaboration with the Rwanda Biomedical Center (RBC) and funded by the Flemish Interuniversity Council (VLIR-UOS), this research sought to improve hypertension management in Rwanda
IGIHE
