Samsung Electronics is expanding the role of wearable devices in preventive healthcare after a new clinical study demonstrated that the company’s Galaxy Watch technology may help predict vasovagal syncope (VVS), a common cause of fainting, before an episode occurs.
The study, conducted in collaboration with Chung-Ang University Gwangmyeong Hospital, focused on whether biosignals collected from the Samsung Galaxy Watch6 could be used to anticipate sudden fainting episodes linked to abrupt drops in heart rate and blood pressure.
Vasovagal syncope is generally not considered life-threatening, but unexpected loss of consciousness can lead to serious secondary injuries, including fractures and head trauma. Medical experts say early detection could significantly improve patient safety, especially for individuals who experience recurrent episodes.
According to the research team led by cardiologist Junhwan Cho, the clinical trial involved 132 patients with suspected VVS symptoms undergoing induced fainting tests. Researchers analyzed heart rate variability (HRV) data collected through the Galaxy Watch6’s photoplethysmography (PPG) sensor and processed the information using an AI-based prediction model.
The system was able to predict fainting episodes up to five minutes in advance with an accuracy rate of 84.6%, while achieving 90% sensitivity and 64% specificity — figures researchers described as clinically meaningful for real-world monitoring applications.
The findings highlight a broader shift in digital healthcare, where wearable devices are increasingly being positioned not only as fitness trackers but also as tools for continuous health surveillance and preventive care.
Samsung said the study demonstrates the growing potential of consumer-grade smartwatches in medical monitoring environments. The company added that it plans to continue expanding collaborations with hospitals and healthcare institutions to strengthen the health-monitoring capabilities of its wearable ecosystem.
The research was published in the medical journal European Heart Journal – Digital Health, where the study was presented as the first known case demonstrating that a commercial smartwatch could potentially provide early prediction of syncope events.
