Testing a wearable device to measure alcohol levels in real-world settings
Towards a Wearable Alcohol Biosensor: Examining the Accuracy of BAC Estimates From New-Generation Transdermal Technology Using Large-Scale Human Testing and Machine Learning Algorithms
This study is testing a new wearable device that measures alcohol levels in your body to see how accurately it works in everyday situations.
Quick facts
| Study type | Observational |
|---|---|
| Enrollment | 240 (estimated) |
| Ages | 21 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Champaign, Illinois) |
| Trial ID | NCT05692830 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study examines the accuracy of a new wearable biosensor that measures transdermal alcohol concentration (TAC) by conducting a combined laboratory and ambulatory assessment over 14 days. Participants will wear the biosensor while also attending three laboratory sessions where they will consume controlled doses of alcohol at varying rates. The goal is to understand the relationship between TAC and breath alcohol concentration (BAC) in diverse real-world contexts. The study utilizes machine learning algorithms to analyze the data collected from participants to improve the accuracy of alcohol level estimations.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are adults aged 21 and older who consume alcohol at least twice a week.
Not a fit: Patients with psychological or medical conditions contraindicating alcohol consumption or those currently seeking treatment for alcohol use disorder may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to more accurate and convenient methods for monitoring alcohol consumption, potentially aiding in reducing alcohol-related harm.
How similar studies have performed: While wearable alcohol biosensors are a developing field, this specific approach combining laboratory and real-world assessments is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested in prior studies.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * 21 years or older * drink alcohol at least 2x weekly Exclusion Criteria: * psychological or medical conditions that might contraindicate alcohol-administration * history of adverse reaction to type and amount of beverage used in the study * currently seeking treatment for alcohol use disorder * does not drink alcohol regularly * taking drugs or medications for which alcohol consumption would be contraindicated * women who are pregnant or are attempting to become pregnant
Where this trial is running
Champaign, Illinois
- University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign — Champaign, Illinois, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Catharine Fairbairn, PhD — University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
- Study coordinator: Catharine Fairbairn, PhD
- Email: uiucalcohollab@gmail.com
- Phone: 217-300-5850
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.