Improving pulse oximetry accuracy for patients with darker skin tones
Official title: Overcoming inequities in Pulse oximetry Through clinical InformatiCs (OPTIC)
Funded at Duke University · NIH-11025427 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is working to improve how we check oxygen levels in patients, especially those with darker skin, by using data to create a smart tool that can spot when someone might actually have low oxygen even if their pulse oximeter says everything is fine, helping to keep everyone safer without needing uncomfortable blood tests.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Duke University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Durham, United States) |
| Project start | February 1, 2025 |
| Project end | November 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $707,410 |
| NIH project number | 1R01HL177003-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11025427 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include patients with darker skin tones who are at risk for hidden hypoxemia.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have darker skin tones may not benefit directly from the findings of this research.
What this research studies
This research aims to address the inaccuracies of pulse oximetry, a common method for monitoring oxygen levels in patients, particularly among those with darker skin tones. The study will utilize electronic health record data to develop a machine learning model that identifies patients at high risk for hidden hypoxemia, a condition where pulse oximetry readings falsely indicate normal oxygen levels. By leveraging existing pulse oximetry technology, the research seeks to enhance patient care without the need for painful arterial blood gas tests. The project will involve multiple health systems and hospitals to ensure a comprehensive approach to this critical issue.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more accurate monitoring of oxygen levels in minority patients, reducing the risk of undetected hypoxemia and improving overall patient outcomes.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has highlighted the disparities in pulse oximetry accuracy, indicating that addressing this issue could lead to significant improvements in patient care.
Where this research is happening
-
Duke University
Durham, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Wong, an-Kwok I — Duke University
- Study coordinator: Wong, an-Kwok I
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.