ZOLL Expands Asahi Kasei Healthcare Portfolio with U.S. Launch of Next-Generation LifeVest® WCD
Published: 09 Jan 2026
Author: Precedence Research
Asahi Kasei has declared a significant innovation in the field of cardiac care with the next-generation LifeVest wearable cardioverter defibrillator (WCD). Asahi Kasei Company released the next generation in the U.S. In addition to the upgrade of the device, ZOLL has already finished the implementation of its most comfortable LifeVest garment nationwide.
Having over 140,000 patients who have been represented in peer-reviewed clinical journals and over one million lives saved around the world. LifeVest WCD is by far the most prolific and clinically proven wearable defibrillator that is available in the market.
Using the well-developed clinical base, ZOLL remains at the top of the wearable defibrillator category by maintaining consistent innovation and developing based on evidence. LifeVest WCD has become the standard of care for numerous clinicians in treating patients with newly diagnosed heart failure and reduced ejection fraction. The more recent studies, such as the groundbreaking SCD-PROTECT trial, further confirm the clinical utility of LifeVest in the early life protection of patients in these critical stages. This bolsters doctor-confidence and encourages further clinical use.
The launch of LifeVest provides a strong impetus to the onward movement of Asahi Kasei in the field of healthcare. Since cardiovascular disease is a major ailment threatening the health of the world population. The need to develop reliable, non-invasive, and intelligent cardiac protection devices is likely to increase in the future. The growing installed base, strong clinical evidence, and technological leadership enable ZOLL to grow in the wearable defibrillator market. Furthermore, ZOLL is not merely fulfilling the current clinical requirements but is also providing the foundation of more integrated, predictive, and preventive cardiac care models in the coming years.
Executive Statement
Ken Shinomiya, Leader of the Healthcare sector at Asahi Kasei, emphasized the strategic importance of the launch, stating, “With its advanced technology, unmatched safety data, and now an even more comfortable garment, LifeVest sets the standard for wearable cardioverter defibrillators. This milestone strengthens ZOLL’s leadership position and supports Asahi Kasei’s long-term vision of achieving durable growth, wider clinical adoption, and strong profitability in critical care.”