American Heart Association Recognizes Innovative Health Tech Solutions Amid Rising Cardiovascular Risks

As cardiovascular disease continues to be the leading cause of death both in the U.S. and globally, the American Heart Association has recognized two organizations for their innovative approaches to healthcare technology at the 2025 Impact with Heart awards ceremony in New York City.

The awards come at a critical time, as the Association's 2025 Heart Disease & Stroke Statistics report reveals alarming increases in health risk factors contributing to cardiovascular disease, particularly among underrepresented groups. The rise in obesity, high blood pressure, and diabetes highlights the urgent need for innovative healthcare solutions.

Sober Sidekick, a California-based digital health platform, earned recognition for its innovative approach to addiction recovery through peer support, having already assisted over 341,000 individuals. OxiWear, based in Virginia, was honored for developing an FDA-approved wearable device that provides continuous oxygen monitoring for patients with pulmonary conditions.

The significance of these innovations extends beyond their immediate applications. American Heart Association CEO Nancy Brown emphasized that these developments are crucial for driving equitable health outcomes across all communities. The recognition of these technologies through the Association's Social Impact Funds and EmPOWERED to Serve Business Accelerator demonstrates a strategic shift toward supporting sustainable, community-based solutions that address both medical and socioeconomic barriers to healthcare.

The impact of these innovations could be substantial, particularly in addressing the growing disparities in cardiovascular health care. By supporting technologies that provide accessible, continuous monitoring and peer support, the American Heart Association is fostering solutions that could help reduce the burden of cardiovascular disease, especially in underserved populations where risk factors are increasing most rapidly.