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UK’s leading research agency moves into weight management technology
http://www.mym-link.co.uk/news/4-news/291-uks-leading-research-agency-moves-into-weight-management-technologyWednesday, 19 January 2011 09:59
A leading UK research company specialising in 3D body measurement, Select Research, has pioneered a new obesity indicator, the Body Volume Index (BVI) using 3D body scanners in a bid to change the way the healthcare sector assess obesity.
Over the last three-years the Birmingham-based company, a recent myM-link member, has developed the automated measurement with the support of top healthcare professionals around the world, including the renowned Mayo Clinic in the US – to more accurately measure and assess weight related health risks. The research was officially launched in the region in October last year and in the long term is aimed to replace the well known and inaccurate Body Mass Index (BMI).
Managing Director of Select Research, Richard Barnes said, “BVI works by calculating the risk factors associated with a person's body shape and type, through analysis of weight and critically body fat distribution. We hope that BVI will play a huge role in the future of health monitoring and weight management.
We are keen to develop this technology further with any healthcare company looking to collaborate on projects of this nature”.
The development of BVI came from Select’s extensive work for major high street retailers, including M&S and Next in adult 3D sizing surveys. The company has also just completed phase 1 of Shape GB, the first childrenswear measurement survey using 3D scanners, involving over 2,500 children aged 4-17 across the UK.
myMlink Manager, Sue Wilde added, “Select Research are experts in their field, considered to be the UK’s leading research agency for sizing. Their recent work with 3D body scanning for healthcare is very exciting and their enthusiasm to work with SMEs on developing this technology even further is great news for our industry. I’m looking forward to working with them on seeking out opportunities to make this happen.”
A valuable membership service for private companies in the Life Science market, myM-link uses its close working relationships with healthcare delivery organisations, academics and industry, to identify product and service gaps. Achieving an outstanding retention rate of 95 per cent in its second year, myM-link is in the top six per cent of the UK’s membership organisations.
