February 10 2025
As indicated by a recent study from the Scripps Research Translational Institute, smartwatches equipped with electrocardiogram (ECG) functions could be utilized to detect the signs of heart failure. ECG smartwatches, like the Apple Watch, have the potential to transform the healthcare industry by acting as a preventive health measure.
The study, which was published in the Journal of the American Medical Association, was carried out over a period of several months. The participants, who were all over the age of 65, wore an ECG smartwatch for the duration of the study. The results were promising, and showed that the watches could detect atrial fibrillation (AFib), a common type of irregular heartbeat which is a major cause of stroke.
The Scripps Research study is not the only one of its kind. Other research groups have also explored the potential of smartwatches in detecting heart disease. For instance, a study from Stanford University, which was funded by Apple, found that the Apple Watch could accurately detect heart conditions in users.
However, while these studies indicate a promising future for the use of smartwatches in healthcare, some experts have expressed concerns. They fear that the technology could lead to unnecessary anxiety and medical procedures, as people could misinterpret the data provided by their watches.
Despite these concerns, the potential benefits of ECG smartwatches cannot be denied. With heart disease being one of the leading causes of death worldwide, the early detection capabilities of these devices could save countless lives. Furthermore, as the technology continues to improve, smartwatches could become an essential tool in the fight against heart disease.
