Samsung Electronics is launching a study to manage muscle loss in patients taking GLP-1 receptor agonists, spearheaded by the Galaxy Watch8.
Samsung announced on Thursday that it is collaborating with Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH), affiliated with Harvard Medical School, to track and analyze physical changes in patients using GLP-1 receptor agonists using the Galaxy Watch.
GLP-1 is a hormone secreted by the intestines after meals, playing a role in blood sugar regulation and appetite suppression. GLP-1 receptor agonists, which mimic this hormone, are known for their weight loss effects but may lead to rebound weight gain, digestive issues, and muscle loss after discontinuation.
This study aims to explore the potential for managing muscle loss in GLP-1 treatment patients by utilizing daily data from the Galaxy Watch and Samsung Health, including body composition, activity levels, and heart rate. It’s an attempt to determine if wearable devices can serve as health management aids during drug treatment, beyond just tracking exercise.
The study will utilize the Galaxy Watch8, which is equipped with Samsung’s BioActive Sensor. The BioActive Sensor integrates optical heart rate sensors (PPG), electrical heart rate sensors (ECG), and bioelectrical impedance analysis sensors (BIA) into a single chipset.
The research team will conduct the study by dividing 100 adult men and women starting weight loss medication into two groups. The experimental group will wear the Galaxy Watch8 and receive body composition monitoring, physical activity tracking, and personalized exercise guidance.
Researchers will compare and analyze the progress of the experimental group against a standard group following only typical GLP-1 treatment guidelines. To ensure result accuracy, they will also use DXA scans, the standard measurement equipment for body composition analysis. DXA scans are medical devices that use low-level radiation to precisely measure bone density, body fat, and muscle mass by region.
Choi Jong-min, Executive Director of Digital Health at Samsung Electronics’ MX Division, stated that this collaboration focuses on muscle loss and lifestyle management challenges faced by actual patients using GLP-1 receptor agonists for weight management, adding that it exemplifies Samsung’s commitment to providing comprehensive and preventive health management solutions through Galaxy Watch features.