Asian Scientist (Aug. 15, 2013) – Researchers in Australia have developed a special iPhone case and app that can be used to quickly and cheaply detect heart rhythm problems, thus preventing strokes.
The research, presented at an Australia and New Zealand Cardiac Society conference, reported that the AliveCor Heart Monitor for iPhone (iECG) is a highly-effective, accurate and cost-effective way to screen patients to identify previously undiagnosed atrial fibrillation (AF) and consequently help prevent strokes.
Senior author, Professor Ben Freedman, said that the device was an exciting breakthrough and would greatly assist in the challenge to improve early identification of AF and prevention of stroke.
“Atrial Fibrillation is the most common heart rhythm problem and is responsible for almost one third of all strokes,” he said.
“The iECG allows us to screen patients for atrial fibrillation in minutes, and treat people early. This is a huge boost in the fight to reduce the amount of strokes, particularly in people over the age of 65.”
Furthermore, the test can be carried out in local pharmacies and general practitioner (GP) surgeries using a single-lead ECG taken on an iPhone with a special case.
“The iECG can be viewed on the phone screen and also used as an educational tool to teach people about their heart rhythm.” said Nicole Lowres, lead author of the study.
“Our economic analysis has shown the iECG is highly cost effective and in fact this is the first mass screening program for AF likely to be cost effective, unlike traditional 12 lead ECGs recorded by a practice nurse.”
“In addition, the iECG is extremely portable, which gives great flexibility for screening, and is simple to administer.”
The researchers are currently trialling iECG screening in GP surgeries in Sydney.
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Source: University of Sydney.
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