I just read that article myself: it's very interesting. Aspects of the association between AF and stroke have always seemed puzzling to me - e.g. the fact that - as I've read, anyway - the data haven't yielded a definite distinction between the stroke risks accompanying paroxysmal and permanent AF, and the fact that they don't provide evidence that ablation reduces stroke risk, even when it does reduce the AF burden. There's a lot left to learn!
You may need to log into Medscape to get the articles. Apparently, the link I originally included gives my email if you do not have a Medscape account which is inappropriate for them to do this.
Thank you. A fascinating article. I wonder what data Alivecor use to claim 98% specificity for their device. Presumably not real world data. Well not with my Kardia.
The goal of stroke prevention with mobile personal ECGs is reasonable. Giving patients control of their data is, too. And no doubt, future doctors will better understand the normal range of ambient arrhythmias. An AF episode that today begins an overtesting cascade may someday be considered normal.
But once again, I worry that mobile ECGs will distract both patients and doctors. We already have effective ways to prevent stroke. In a study of more than 11,000 high-risk patients, Swedish authors observed a 72% lower risk of stroke in those who ate well, moved, maintained a normal body weight, drank low to moderate amounts of alcohol, and did not smoke.[16] Two recent large observational studies confirmed the cardiovascular benefits of physical activity.[17,18]
I know this may seem like nonspecific, unsexy advice, but lifestyle modification is safe, and everyone agrees it delivers huge health benefits.
The mobile ECG is a nice tool for specific tasks. It's fun. But it's fantasy to think it will improve health outcome]
Fascinating article and the analysis of strokes in AF patients is rather sobering. John Mandrola is not afraid to think outside the box. Thank you for posting.
I think most people are aware of my views on these sorts of devices so I won't bore you any more. I do agree that life style changes and whole life treatment of conditions has a valuable place in today's world.
I don’t really see that it will lead to over diagnosis as in my experience although self monitoring can be very helpful, medics tend to only diagnose when they capture ECG traces on their own machines and under supervision. But it could be reflection of poor protocol procedures and medics taking short cuts.
Content on HealthUnlocked does not replace the relationship between you and doctors or other healthcare professionals nor the advice you receive from them.
Never delay seeking advice or dialling emergency services because of something that you have read on HealthUnlocked.