AI tool on smartwatch detects hidden structural heart disease
The study found 88 per cent accuracy in spotting heart problems from wearable readings.
An AI algorithm paired with smartwatch sensors has successfully detected structural heart diseases, including valve damage and weakened heart muscles, in adults. The study, conducted at Yale School of Medicine, will be presented at the American Heart Association’s 2025 Scientific Sessions in New Orleans.
The AI model was trained on over 266,000 electrocardiogram recordings and validated across multiple hospitals and population studies. When tested on 600 participants using single-lead ECGs from a smartwatch, it achieved an 88% accuracy in detecting heart disease.
Researchers said smartwatches could offer a low-cost, accessible method for early screening of structural heart conditions that usually require echocardiograms. The algorithm’s ability to analyse single-lead ECG data could enable preventive detection before symptoms appear.
Experts emphasised that smartwatch data cannot replace medical imaging, but it could complement clinical assessments and expand access to screening. Larger studies in the US are planned to confirm effectiveness and explore community-based use in preventive heart care.
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