Smartwatches with the ECG function have become a permanent part of our lives. One of the latest research shows that they can be a valuable tool in detecting heart disease, although with some limitations.
What can smartwatches with ECG do?
British researchers from University College London conducted one of the largest studies on the effectiveness of smartwatches in detecting heart disease. They observed two groups: the first one, numbering 54,000 people (average age 58), they followed for almost 12 years. The second group, approximately 29,000 people (average age 64), was monitored for 3.5 years.
The results are very promising. In people whose smartwatch detected additional ventricular contractions, the risk of this organ failure was twice as high. It was similar in the case of atrial contractions – here the risk of atrial fibrillation increased by 100%. It is a dangerous arrhythmia that, according to WHO, affects over 33 million people around the world. A 15-second measurement is enough to notice disturbing changes in… work hearts. If the high vertical spikes in the ECG pattern are too close to each other and form an inverted “V”, this is a signal that you should visit a cardiologist
Where does the power of a watch end?
But let's make no mistake – a smartwatch is not a cardiology clinic. A standard ECG performed in the office uses 12 electrodes placed on the body. Our watch only has one. Watches allow us to notice problems, but we won't see all the details.
Interestingly, a team from Harvard University checked the accuracy of the measurements Apple Watcha in detecting heart attacks. They examined 81 people suspected of having a heart attack and 19 healthy people for comparison. The watch correctly detected a heart attack in 93-95% of cases. This is an impressive result, but remember – the device itself will not provide a diagnosis.
What to pay attention to?
If we are looking for a watch that can actually replace health measurement devices, let's look for those with a medical certificate. Some watch models, such as Huawei Watch D2, have already received certificates. The measurement error is +/- 3 mmHg, so theoretically they are comparable to traditional devices. This means that their measurements are accurate enough to serve as initial diagnostics. If the watch detects something disturbing, do not panic. Sometimes it's a false alarm, but it's better to be safe and consult a doctor doctor.
What will the future bring?
Manufacturers are already working on new features. In plans is, for example, the detection of blood sugar levels (some devices already boast of this possibility, but their effectiveness is at least questionable). In a few years, our watches may become small home laboratories. For now, let's focus on what they can do today – and they can do quite a lot.