Global Health Medical Device Compendium/Philips Breath Counter
| Health topic | Child mortality |
|---|---|
| Classification | Diagnosis |
| Manufacturer location |
Washington State, United States |
Infant pneumonia is one of the leading causes of fatalities in children under the age of five, claiming more than two million children's lives every year.
Detailed description of the solution
[edit | edit source]The Breath Counter measures the number of breaths taken by a patient to diagnose pneumonia. Once an activation button is pressed, the device counts each breath taken by an infant for one minute. A total of three tests are taken, and the count results for all three tests are displayed on an LCD screen. The device is powered by solar cells and has a lifespan of more than five years. It can be worn around the neck.
Designed by
[edit | edit source]- Designed by: Philips Philanthropy by Design Program
- Manufacturer: Philips Design
- Manufacturer location: 2301 Fifth Avenue, Suite 200, Seattle WA, 98121-1825
Planning and Implementation
[edit | edit source]Philips partnered with international organizations, such as Save the Children, WHO, and Nepal Family Health Program in developing the Breath Counter.
Funding Source
[edit | edit source]Private sources through Philips Philanthropy by Design.
References
[edit | edit source]Other internally generated reports
[edit | edit source]Philips Philanthropy by Design. (2009). Fighting pneumonia. Full PDF available here.
Externally generated reports
[edit | edit source]Bloomberg Businessweek. (n.d.). 15 Best Heavy Duty Designs: Breath Counter. Link available here
Maternova. (2011). Philips' Breath Counter. More information available here.
| Authors | Lonny Grafman, Chris Waterguy, Emilio, Kathleen Sienko, Amir Sabet Sarvestani |
|---|---|
| License | CC-BY-SA-3.0 |
| Cite as | Evashiu (2012–2026). "Global Health Medical Device Compendium/Philips Breath Counter". Appropedia. Retrieved September 10, 2026. |