The Health Equity Problem with Pulse Oximeters: Pulse oximeters risk inaccuracy in patients with dark skin, leading to potential missed sleep apnea diagnoses. Some pulse ox manufacturers explore more inclusive testing.

PULSE oximeters; SLEEP apnea syndromes; HEALTH equity; UNITED States attorneys general; MANUFACTURING industries; MEDICAL personnel; SKIN

Pulse oximeters, devices used to measure oxygen saturation in the blood, have been found to be inaccurate in patients with dark skin, potentially leading to missed sleep apnea diagnoses. The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has acknowledged this issue and efforts are being made to address these disparities, including FDA meetings, proposals for improved testing standards, and initiatives like the Open Oximetry Project. A study conducted by the Open Oximetry Project found that nearly half of the tested pulse oximeters did not meet FDA standards for accuracy in diverse populations. BodiMetrics' circul pro Ring, which has been proven to accurately measure oxygen saturation in diverse skin tones, recently received FDA clearance. Clinicians should still be cautious and understand the limitations of the devices they use. [Extracted from the article]

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