IBM launches cardiovascular disease management system in China

HONG KONG (Reuters) - International Business Machines Corp (IBM) on Thursday announced the launch of China's first all-in-one electronic cardiogram management system aimed at improving the detection and management of cardiovascular diseases.

IBM said it had teamed up with Chinese electronic cardiogram systems provider Beijing Goodwill Information and Technology Co Ltd to launch the system, which is designed to help hospitals analyze patient information from electrocardiography (ECG) examination reports to better detect cardiovascular diseases.

The system, software-compliant with the data format of all other ECG systems and international medical standards, would also enabled doctors to monitor heart patients with mobile devices, IBM said.

The company said it had set up a laboratory in Beijing to meet growing demand for information technology-enabled healthcare solutions in China.

Heart disease, strokes and diabetes could cost China $558 billion in national income between 2006 and 2015, according to World Health Organisation estimates.

Last month, IBM said it would invest $100 million over the next three years in a research initiative with a focus on China as Beijing embarks on a multibillion-dollar plan to upgrade its healthcare system.

(US$1=HK$7.77)

(Reporting by Donny Kwok; Editing by Chris Lewis)