Description
- Abstract:
- Since its invention, pulse oximetry (SpO2) has been fundamental in non-invasively estimating arterial blood oxygen levels (SaO2) and is widely used as a diagnostic tool. Pulse oximeters function by calculating the ratio of oxygenated hemoglobin (oxyhemoglobin) to total hemoglobin. However, conventional pulse oximetry has limitations, often failing to detect hidden hypoxemia, a condition where low blood oxygen levels are not accurately reflected in SpO2 readings. This disproportionately affects non-Hispanic Black patients, contributing to delayed treatment and poorer health outcomes. The COVID-19 pandemic further magnified these disparities, indicating the need for more accurate pulse oximetry technologies. To address this issue, the Probe Lab at Brown University is developing Equipulse, a polarization-based pulse oximeter designed to reduce skin-tone bias in SpO2 measurements. As the first of its kind, a thorough market assessment and commercialization strategy are essential. This thesis integrates market research, device segmentation, and economic analysis to evaluate Equipulse’s adoption potential and commercialization pathways. A systematic review of academic literature, industry reports, and market analyses provided insights into pulse oximetry trends. Segmentation by device type, end-use, and medical application identified opportunities in hospital, pediatric, adult, and sensor markets. Interviews with physicians and hospital administrators highlighted clinical limitations of current devices and market potential for Equipulse. Qualitative research suggested an increasing reliance on arterial blood gas (ABG) testing due to existing pulse oximetry inaccuracies. Economic analysis quantified the costs of hidden hypoxemia in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), congestive heart failure (CHF), and neonatal respiratory distress syndrome, demonstrating the value of equitable pulse oximetry in reducing ABG dependence. Expert insights informed business model development, outlining key factors such as value proposition, market entry strategies, and target markets. Market entry opportunities include prioritizing the growing sensor segment through early-stage industry partnerships. Licensing options and regulatory considerations were also evaluated, emphasizing the need for compliance with administration requirements and the use of quantitative tools to assess skin-tone representation in clinical studies.
- Notes:
- Thesis (Sc. M.)--Brown University, 2025
Citation
Sogbesan, Oluwatosin Ayomide,
"Market Assessment and Commercial Opportunities for Equitable Pulse Oximetry"
(2025).
Biotechnology, Biology and Medicine Theses and Dissertations.
Brown Digital Repository. Brown University Library.
https://repository.library.brown.edu/studio/item/bdr:j4f7cebc/
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