Daffodil International University
Science & Information Technology => Science Discussion Forum => Latest Technology => Topic started by: fahad.faisal on February 25, 2020, 11:07:16 PM
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Over the past several years, Apple has made efforts to expand the health-related features of the iPhone and Apple Watch. Apps and features like fall detection and high heart rate monitoring provide helpful insights, especially for senior citizens. Last year, Johnson & Johnson announced a study that would explore how these capabilities could reduce the risk of stroke through early detection of irregular heart rhythms. Enrollment in the clinical trial -- called Heartline -- is now open for US residents who are 65 or older, have Original Medicare, own an iPhone 6s or newer and allow access to their Medicare claims data.
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The study hinges on the early detection of atrial fibrillation (AFib), which is an irregular heart rhythm that causes poor blood flow and is a leading cause of stroke. While the link between atrial fibrillation and stroke is thoroughly understood, AFib has very few warning signs, making it difficult to diagnose until a stroke occurs. Johnson & Johnson and Apple are hoping that apps and the Apple Watch's electrocardiogram (ECG) features will help detect AFib before a stroke occurs. This trial follows a Stanford study that found that the Apple Watch's irregular heart rate monitoring features are accurate enough to use in a medical setting.
Since this is a virtual trial, participants don't have to travel to a clinical trial site -- they can partake remotely via a proprietary app. The Heartline study could help prevent strokes and deaths -- AFib leads to 158,000 deaths per year -- and could lead the way toward a new approach to clinical trials that leverage greater sample sizes and more consistent reporting. Those interested in participating can sign up at Heartline.com.
Source: Johnson & Johnson