How the Apple Watch helps detect and manage heart-related conditions

Researchers are using the Apple Watch to explore new frontiers in heart health, according to an Apple press release that highlights two recent studies that show how the Apple Watch can help detect and manage heart-related conditions.

First study

The first study was conducted by researchers at the Stanford University School of Medicine and published in the New England Journal of Medicine. The study involved more than 400 participants who wore an Apple Watch and were enrolled in the Apple Heart Study. The researchers found that the Apple Watch was able to detect irregular heartbeats in a large number of participants.

This led to further testing and diagnosis of these individuals, and many were found to have atrial fibrillation, a common heart condition that can lead to stroke. The study concluded that the Apple Watch could be an effective tool for detecting atrial fibrillation in people who may not have been diagnosed before.

Second study

The second study was conducted by researchers at the University of California San Francisco and published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology. The study involved XNUMX participants who were given an Apple Watch to wear for six months. Participants were asked to complete regular surveys about their heart health and were also given access to a feature on the Apple Watch called the Heartline Study. This feature provided personalized guidance on how to improve heart health. Researchers found that participants who used the Heartline Study feature had better heart health outcomes than those who didn't. Specifically, they had lower blood pressure and improved cholesterol levels.

Other features of the Apple Watch that may be beneficial for heart health

The ECG app on the Apple Watch allows users to take an EKG right from their wrist. This can help detect irregular heartbeats, such as atrial fibrillation. The Apple Watch also has a feature called “Fall Detection,” which can detect when someone has taken a hard fall and can automatically call emergency services if necessary.

The Apple Watch is not a substitute for medical care

The Apple Watch is not a substitute for medical care and that people should always consult a healthcare professional if they have concerns about their heart health. However, the Apple Watch can be a valuable tool for monitoring heart health and spotting potential problems early on.

Source:

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