Loading...
The Apple Heart study showed that wearable devices with photoplethysmography (PPG) sensors can potentially diagnose atrial fibrillation (AF) based on irregularity of pulse (NEJM JW Cardiol Jan 2020 and N Engl J Med 2019; 381:1909 and 1964). The Fitbit is another wrist-worn device with a PPG monitor. Now, in a remote, manufacturer-funded clinical trial, researchers assessed the ability of Fitbit's software algorithm for detecting undiagnosed AF (NCT04380415).
A total of 455,699 participants (mean age, 47 years; 71% women) wore a Fitbit device for 1 week, among whom 1% received an irregular heart rhythm detection notification. Of these participants, approximately one third completed a follow-up telehealth visit with a physician, and most recei…