Dutch researchers have developed sensors that measure vital signs such as heart rate and rhythm, which can be sewn into underwear and connected to a small chip module that monitors the information. The sensors work by detecting electrical signals produced by the body, thus they do not need to touch the skin. As the sensors are waterproof, they can be washed just like normal clothes. The underwear would be of benefit to people with heart problems, as it could alert them to any heart rhythm abnormalities. Philips Electronics, the company behind the idea, say that the underwear can also trigger local alarms or wirelessly link with a mobile phone to call an ambulance should the wearer suffer a heart attack.
SOURCE/REFERENCE: Reported by www.reutershealth.com on the 8th October 2003.