Smartwatch Screening for Atrial Fibrillation

Smartwatches offer a noninvasive way to diagnose asymptomatic atrial fibrillation (AF; see Figure 1). In the latest trial on the topic, 440 older adults with elevated stroke risk (median age, 75; CHA₂DS₂-VASc scores ≥2 in men, ≥3 in women) were randomized to either smartwatch screening or routine care for 6 months.

Patients in the smartwatch group were asked to record a 30-second electrocardiogram (ECG) any time they felt symptoms or received a watch notification of an irregular rhythm; clinicians reviewed the ECG within 24 hours and diagnosed AF when episodes lasted >30 seconds. Patients in the routine-care group were followed at their physician’s discretion and then asked to report any new diagnoses.