UCL researchers conducted a study on how smartwatches could potentially predict heart issues later in life. The study, published in The European Heart Journal – Digital Health, analyzed 15-second ECG data from 83,000 people, similar to ECGs done by smartwatches and phones.
The power of wearable devices in heart health prediction
The researchers identified ECG recordings with extra heartbeats. These are usually benign but can be associated with heart failure and arrhythmia if they occur frequently. They found that people with an extra beat in this short recording (one in 25 of the total) faced twice the risk of developing heart failure or atrial fibrillation over the next decade. The analyzed ECG recordings came from individuals aged 50 to 70 with no known cardiovascular disease at the time.
Heart failure is a condition in which the heart pump is weakened and often cannot be treated. Atrial fibrillation occurs when abnormal electrical impulses suddenly start firing in the top chambers of the heart (atria), causing an irregular and often abnormally fast heart rate. It can be life-limiting, causing issues such as dizziness, shortness of breath, and tiredness, and is linked to a fivefold increased risk of stroke.
Wearable devices and the future of heart health prediction
Lead author Dr. Michele Orini from UCL Institute of Cardiovascular Science stated, “Our study suggests that ECGs from consumer-grade wearable devices may help detect and prevent future heart disease.” He added that more research is necessary to determine the best way to screen people using wearables. Combining such screening with artificial intelligence and computer tools could quickly identify high-risk ECGs. This approach may lead to more accurate risk assessment in the population and help reduce the burden of these diseases.
Senior author Professor Pier D. Lambiase highlighted the benefits of early identification for those at risk of heart failure and arrhythmia. This approach allows for more effective assessment of higher-risk cases. Furthermore, it offers opportunities for prevention through early treatment and lifestyle advice, such as regular, moderate exercise and a healthy diet.
Clinical ECGs typically need at least 10 sensors around the body and a specialist doctor to analyze recordings. In contrast, consumer-grade wearables use only two embedded sensors (single-lead) in a single device. Although less cumbersome, they may be less accurate. The research team used machine learning and an automated tool to detect recordings with extra beats. Two experts then reviewed these recordings to confirm their accuracy. This suggests that wearable devices could play a crucial role in predicting future heart health risks.
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