On Tuesday, Feb. 25, Apple and Johnson & Johnson announced a new study called "Heartline" to figure out if the Apple Watch can detect Atrial Fibrillation or AFib and help in reducing the risk of stroke.
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U.S Citizens over the age of 65 are the only ones eligible to take part in the clinical research
Through the Heartline Study app on iPhones, citizens who are above the age of 65 are eligible to participate in this clinical research. These participants will also have some access to heart health features on Apple Watch. The company must also agree to give access and share their Medicare claims data and details.
Dr. Paul Burton, the Vice President of medical affairs for Johnson & Johnson, stated that "The Heartline Study is a nationwide, randomized, controlled, app-based, virtual research study sponsored by Janssen Pharmaceuticals, Inc., a member of the Janssen Pharmaceutical Companies. The team worked with Apple to jointly design the research study and the Heartline Study app."
When does the clinical research begin?
According to Heartline, open enrollment will begin effectively on Tuesday. Apple's Head of Health Strategic Initiatives Myoung Cha has highlighted and stated the importance of privacy in this study.
"Apple technology is making a meaningful impact on scientific research through the powerful capabilities of iPhone and Apple Watch, all with privacy at the center of the participant experience," said Myoung Cha, Apple's Head of Health Strategic Initiatives.
"The Heartline Study will help further understanding of how our technology could both contribute to science and help improve health outcomes, including reducing the risk of stroke."
She also said that one group will participate by using their iPhones and Heartline app while another group will participate by using the study app on their iPhone and the Apple Watch that they have obtained to use the ECG app. Though owning the device is not required at all, and they can also loan watches.
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Heartline has been reported to last at least three years in addition to the two years of active engagement and one year of data collection. This clinical research via the Heartline Study app will definitely provide education, including tips and surveys, to overall heart health. The ECG app or electrocardiogram application will be able to identify an electrocardiogram as either sinus rhythm or AFib. There will also be a feature wherein irregular rhythm notifications will be provided.
It has been known that Apple has been promoting the Apple Watch as something that can be of help to people on keeping track of their vital medical information, especially their heart rate. They hope to help further understanding of hour our tech could be a huge contribution to science and, at the same time, improve health, especially when it comes to stroke and heart problems.
