How technology is transforming heart health

Reviewed by Caitlin Goodwin DNP, CNM, RN, with over 16 years of experience in the medical field. She holds a Doctorate in Nursing Practice from Frontier Nursing University and is passionate about educating healthcare professionals and students.

Introduction

In the ever-evolving healthcare landscape, technology has emerged as a powerful ally in the pursuit of better cardiac health. To predict, diagnose, treat, or prevent heart diseases, doctors require continuous monitoring of the patients. Wearable devices and mobile applications play a pivotal role in monitoring, managing, and improving cardiovascular wellness. It has been seen that these devices aid in the diagnosis and monitoring of hypertension, cardiac failure, arrhythmia, and other cardiac disorders. If used correctly, they potentially provide improved healthcare outcomes.

Cardiovascular diseases detection: technology-assisted

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are acknowledged as the deadliest diseases in the world, as they are considered the leading cause of death. According to WHO statistics on cardiac diseases, the number of deaths caused by CVDs has risen to 18.6 million in 2019, which accounts for 32% of worldwide mortality in 2019. Due to their potentially hazardous nature, researchers need to find optimal solutions that help in early diagnosis of the disease. With advancements in technology, healthcare services are being improved, enabling the detection of CVDs. AI has helped to provide more accurate, less erroneous, and faster patient care with potential financial and medical implications. AI has great potential to revolutionize the cardiac field soon, consequently improving patient care.

Smart wearables

Wearable devices are now commonly used by patients to manage their well-being, and health and to track their activities. These devices include smart watches or rings that continuously collect data and track physiological and behavioral functions allowing physicians to better look at the patients’ health. While offering various clinical applications, smart watches help detect arrhythmias and manage chronic conditions like peripheral artery disease and cardiac failure.

Heart rate monitoring: beyond the pulse

The conventional method of monitoring heart health primarily revolves around measuring the pulse, a fundamental indicator of cardiovascular activity. However, with the advent of advanced wearable technology and mobile applications, the scope of heart rate monitoring has expanded far beyond simply counting beats per minute. This evolution has ushered in a new era of comprehensive and nuanced insights into cardiovascular wellness. The latest wearable devices offer a more sophisticated approach to heart rate monitoring.

Heart rate variability (HRV)

Beyond the basic pulse, these devices often measure Heart Rate Variability (HRV), which represents the variation in time between consecutive heartbeats. HRV is a crucial metric beyond a simple pulse reading, providing insights into the autonomic nervous system’s influence on the heart. High HRV is associated with better cardiovascular health, indicating a more adaptable and resilient system.

Continuous monitoring

One of the key advancements is the transition from intermittent to continuous monitoring. Wearable devices, such as smartwatches and fitness trackers, now provide real-time data on heart rate, allowing users to track fluctuations throughout the day. This continuous monitoring offers a more comprehensive understanding of how the heart responds to various activities, stressors, and rest periods.

Blood pressure monitoring on the go

Traditionally confined to medical settings, blood pressure monitoring has undergone a transformative shift with the advent of portable and user-friendly devices, allowing individuals to track their blood pressure anytime, anywhere. This advancement, often integrated into wearable technology and mobile applications, has profound implications for proactive health management and the prevention of hypertension-related complications.

Detecting irregularities

Continuous heart rate monitoring also facilitates the detection of irregularities or anomalies in the heartbeat pattern. Some advanced wearables come equipped with built-in electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG) functionality, enabling users to capture a more detailed picture of their heart’s electrical activity. This feature is particularly valuable for identifying conditions like atrial fibrillation or other arrhythmias.

Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning in diagnostics

The integration of AI and machine learning algorithms is set to transform cardiovascular diagnostics. These technologies can analyze vast datasets, including genetic information, imaging studies, and health records, to enhance risk prediction, early detection of diseases, and personalized treatment plans. AI-driven diagnostic tools may provide more accurate and timely assessments, improving patient outcomes.

Conclusion

As technology advances, wearables and apps are becoming indispensable tools for those striving to maintain and improve their heart health. By embracing these innovations, individuals can gain valuable insights, make informed lifestyle choices, and take proactive steps toward a heart-conscious and healthier future. Wearable devices proved to have potential applications in the monitoring and screening of CVDs. These would help to produce better outcomes in patient care resulting in saving lives around the globe.

Citations

• Elsevier. (2023, June 28). Wearable Technology and the cardiovascular system: The Future of Patient Assessment. The Lancet Digital Health.
• Sensors (Basel). (2023, Jan 11). Smart Wearables for the Detection of Cardiovascular Diseases: A Systematic Literature Review https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9865666/