Gaby
Researchers are exploring the possibility of testing for heart arrhythmias while shopping in supermarkets. Soon, shoppers will be able to check their heart rate thanks to a special device embedded in the handle of shopping carts. This will enable monitoring for atrial fibrillation (AF).
This most common heart disorder can be episodic (appearing and disappearing) or persistent, yet many people are unaware they have it. The problem is that AF can lead to blood clots in the heart, increasing the risk of stroke by five times.
Cardiogram in the Supermarket
British researchers have developed MyDiagnostick—a cylindrical device that records an electrocardiogram (ECG) in a single lead when the participant’s hands touch metal electrodes. The internal software analyzes the data collected within a minute while contact is maintained. To make this process as discreet as possible, the researchers decided to integrate their device into the handles of supermarket carts.
A total of 2,155 shoppers agreed to use the modified carts during their shopping trips. They were asked to hold the handle for at least a minute. If no heart issues were detected, the handle lit up green. The researchers also manually monitored the participant’s pulse to verify the results.
If MyDiagnostick detected an irregular heartbeat, the cart handle lit up red. In that case, the shopper underwent additional pulse checks manually and with a separate heart monitoring device. Furthermore, a cardiologist reviewed their ECG. Those with unclear ECG results were invited to participate in the experiment again.
According to the study, 220 participants had AF, as indicated by the ECG data and the device’s red light. For 115 of them, the diagnosis was ruled out after a cardiologist’s examination. Another 46 ECGs were deemed unclear. Overall, 59 participants were diagnosed with atrial fibrillation, with 39 of them previously unaware of their condition.
As noted by lead author Jan Jones, the experiment demonstrates the potential of their device. MyDiagnostick will allow for mass health screenings without interrupting daily activities.
In just two months, 39 individuals were identified who had no prior knowledge of their AF. They were living with an increased risk of stroke without even realizing it. Thanks to this simple screening, these individuals sought help from a cardiologist.
Needs Refinement, but Already Has Supporters
The researchers point out that while MyDiagnostick is a highly sensitive device for detecting AF (over 94%), its accuracy still requires improvement. It registered a significant number of false positives.
Only about a quarter to half of the participants who received a red light actually had heart disease. Additionally, approximately half of the actual AF cases would have been missed using the current algorithm.
Therefore, as reported by Newatlas, the researchers will continue to work on enhancing the device’s accuracy. Even at this stage, shoppers expressed satisfaction and a desire to use it.
As Jan Jones notes, nearly two-thirds of shoppers invited to participate in the experiment used the cart with the device. However, the vast majority of those who declined likely did so out of haste rather than fear of being monitored. According to the researcher, this demonstrates the concept’s acceptance among most people.
For further research on the MyDiagnostick device, some adjustments need to be made to enhance its accuracy. Mr. Jones asserts that screening for atrial fibrillation during regular shopping trips could prevent strokes and save lives. He believes that providing immediate access to a healthcare professional who can explain the results and direct patients to confirmatory tests will be crucial for the success of the MyDiagnostick system.
