Wireless body area networks: Status and opportunities

Future Internet and Internet of Things are hot research topics mainly due to 2 enabling factors: the increasing use of wireless networks and the constant miniaturization of electrical devices. Both enablers have also empowered the development of Wireless Body Area Networks (WBANs). In these networks various sensors are attached on clothing or on the body or even implanted under the skin. The wireless nature of the network and the wide variety of sensors offer numerous new, practical and innovative applications to improve health care and the Quality of Life. The sensors of a WBAN measure for example the heartbeat, the body temperature or record a prolonged electrocardiogram. Using a WBAN, the patient experiences a greater physical mobility and is no longer compelled to stay in the hospital. This paper offers a survey of the concept of Wireless Body Area Networks and presents a unique European initiative which offers access to a federated set of European Testbeds and Research Facilities in the area of Future Internet.