Abbott is making strides in both diagnostic support and advanced cardiac care through strategic partnerships and technological advancements. The company has recently launched several initiatives, including a collaboration with the Big Ten Conference to address critical blood shortages and the expansion of its cardiac rhythm management portfolio.
Addressing Blood Shortages with the Big Ten Conference
In response to ongoing blood shortages across the U.S., Abbott has teamed up with the Big Ten Conference for the 'We Give Blood Drive.' This initiative aims to raise awareness and encourage blood donations among students, alumni, and fans of the Big Ten universities. The competition aspect involves awarding a $1 million donation to the university that secures the most blood donations, which will be used for student or community health needs. According to Abbott's chairman and CEO, Robert B. Ford, this partnership leverages the competitive spirit of Big Ten schools to significantly boost the blood supply and inspire a new generation of donors.
Advancing Pulsed Field Ablation for Atrial Fibrillation
Abbott has also announced the completion of enrollment for its VOLT-AF IDE study, designed to assess the effectiveness of the company’s Volt PFA (Pulsed Field Ablation) system in treating atrial fibrillation (AFib). This study is pivotal in evaluating a next-generation PFA catheter that incorporates new design concepts aimed at improving patient outcomes. Electrophysiologist Dr. Monica Lo from Arkansas Heart Hospital emphasized the importance of such studies in safely deploying advanced AFib treatments. Professor Prash Sanders, Director of the Center for Heart Rhythm Disorders at the University of Adelaide in Australia, highlighted the value of exploring diverse therapy options for patients with abnormal heart rhythms, noting Abbott's advancements beyond first-generation systems.
Lingo Glucose Monitor Now Available in the U.S.
Further expanding its consumer health offerings, Abbott's Lingo, a real-time glucose monitoring system, is now available in the United States without a prescription. This system allows individuals to track their glucose levels continuously, providing insights into their body's response to food and lifestyle. Olivier Ropars, divisional vice president of Abbott's Lingo business, stated that Lingo empowers individuals to build new healthy habits and take control of their health and wellness by bridging the gap between traditional healthcare and preventative measures.
