Rush University study finds AI health app improves blood pressure control

A study published in the Journal of General Internal Medicine indicates that integrating an AI-driven smartphone app into clinical workflows can help patients achieve meaningful reductions in blood pressure.

Researchers at Rush University Medical Center conducted a year-long study involving 425 patients being treated for high blood pressure. The participants used a free app developed by Nuna, Inc., which features AI-driven health coaching, blood pressure monitoring, and behavioral incentives. The tool allows users to track readings and receive personalized reminders to maintain heart-healthy habits, while providing healthcare providers visibility into patient efforts between clinical visits.

Co-lead author Michael Gottlieb, MD, MBA, noted that the group using the app showed clinically significant improvements. While the study was not designed to assess hard clinical outcomes, Gottlieb highlighted that such reductions in blood pressure are historically correlated with lower rates of heart attacks and strokes.