Pulse oximeters are medical devices that help to measure a person’s blood oxygen levels. Recently, there has been a growing concern about the accuracy of these devices, especially when it comes to people with darker skin tones.
The issue lies in the way pulse oximeters work – they emit light through the skin to determine the oxygen levels in the blood. However, this process can be less effective on individuals with darker skin, as the pigment can absorb more light and interfere with the readings.
In response to this concern, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is now looking into the matter and considering whether pulse oximeters should come with warnings about potential inaccuracies for people with darker skin tones. Some experts are even calling for a more diverse range of skin tones to be included in the testing of these devices to ensure their accuracy across different populations.
It is important for people to be aware of these potential inaccuracies, especially if they rely on pulse oximeters for monitoring their health. In the meantime, individuals with darker skin tones may want to consult with their healthcare providers to ensure that they are getting accurate readings from these devices.