Testing smartwatches to detect irregular heartbeat in stroke patients

This trial is testing whether smartwatches—specifically a Moto 360 or Samsung Galaxy Watch 6—can reliably detect atrial fibrillation (an irregular heartbeat that increases stroke risk) by analyzing heart rhythm signals. Researchers will use artificial intelligence to teach the watches to recognize patterns of atrial fibrillation, while comparing the smartwatch data to standard clinical heart monitors you'll also wear. If successful, this technology could help doctors catch irregular heartbeats early in stroke patients, when treatment can prevent future strokes.

Many people over 65 have atrial fibrillation without knowing it, and catching it early with blood-thinning medications can reduce stroke risk by nearly two-thirds. Current monitoring methods are uncomfortable, short-lived, or invasive, so researchers are testing whether everyday smartwatches could provide continuous, passive monitoring that patients actually want to wear.