Huawei Launches Diabetes Risk Assessment Feature

Huawei has unveiled a new wearable diabetes risk assessment feature at World Health Expo Dubai 2026, reinforcing its focus on proactive, smartwatch-led health management.

The new function uses non-invasive Photoplethysmography technology and advanced smartwatch sensors to analyse wellness patterns and flag potential indicators of diabetes risk. The feature is designed to raise awareness and prompt medical consultation where needed. It does not diagnose diabetes or measure blood glucose levels.

A Growing Global Health Concern

According to the 2024 International Diabetes Federation report, 589 million adults aged 20 to 79 worldwide live with diabetes. Of these, 43% remain undiagnosed, and 81% reside in low- and middle-income countries.

In the MENA region, 85 million adults are affected. This figure is projected to rise by 92% to 163 million by 2050. In the UAE, the prevalence of diabetes among adults is 20.7%.

These statistics underscore the need for early awareness and preventative health monitoring tools.

How the Feature Works

Recent research has identified a shared genetic link between resting heart rate and diabetes. Diabetes-related microvascular arteriosclerosis and neuropathy have also been shown to influence PPG signals.

Huawei’s new feature analyses blood sugar-related wellness patterns through smartwatch-based PPG measurements. Users are required to wear the device continuously for 3-14 days.

After the monitoring period, the Diabetes Risk app categorises results into:

• Low
• Medium
• High

Users identified in the Medium or High categories are advised to consult healthcare professionals for further evaluation.

Huawei emphasises that the feature supports preventative awareness. It does not replace medical screening or professional diagnosis.

Expert Collaboration and Wearable Innovation

Professor Jiguang Wang, Director of the Shanghai Institute of Hypertension, addressed delegates at the expo on the role of wearable-based PPG technology in proactive health trend monitoring.

Professor Wang has worked closely with Huawei on wearable health innovation. He contributed to the development of the HUAWEI WATCH D and the HUAWEI WATCH D2, both designed to support blood pressure monitoring.

Device Availability

The diabetes risk assessment feature is now available on the HUAWEI WATCH GT 6 Pro via an over-the-air update. Huawei plans to extend compatibility to additional smartwatch models.

The feature is considered safe for general use and has no known side effects. It remains an awareness tool rather than a clinical diagnostic solution.

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