Sensor Technology Detects Atrial Fibrillation in Hypermarket Shoppers

A new study has revealed that it is possible to identify individuals at high risk of stroke through sensors attached to the handles of grocery carts. Researchers from Liverpool John Moores University (LJMU) presented their findings at Acnap 2023, a scientific meeting of the European Society of Cardiology (ESC) held in Edinburgh, England.

Atrial fibrillation (AF), a condition that can cause an abnormal heart rhythm and increase the risk of stroke, affects 1 in 45 Britons, according to the British Heart Foundation. However, many people are unaware that they have this disease, making early detection and diagnosis crucial.

To address this issue, Professor Ian Jones and his team at LJMU developed a technology to detect abnormal heartbeats of shoppers by installing an electrocardiogram (ECG) sensor on the handle of a mart cart. When the sensor picks up a sign of atrial fibrillation, the cart’s handle flashes a red cross, while a green checkmark lights up when no signal is detected.

The researchers installed carts with this sensor in four locations in Sainsbury’s, a large supermarket chain in the UK, and studied the accuracy of 2,155 participants over a three-month period. Participants held onto the handle of a sensor-equipped cart for at least 60 seconds while moving. After a detailed diagnosis, it was found that 59 participants were suffering from atrial fibrillation, with 39 of them being unaware of their condition.

While the method correctly identified 70% to 93% of people with atrial fibrillation, the researchers noted that further work is needed to improve its accuracy. They found that 20% of the 220 ECGs analyzed were unclear due to hand movements complicating the reading. Additionally, the method was less accurate at detecting people without the condition, with the researchers estimating that only one-fourth to one-fifth of those flagged as having atrial fibrillation actually had it.

Professor Jonathan Mant, head of the Cardiovascular Research Group at the University of Cambridge, reviewed the study results and described the approach as innovative. However, he raised concerns about the high number of unclear ECGs and the burden it puts on the health service, as even individuals with irregular ECGs but not atrial fibrillation were subject to detailed examination.

Despite these challenges, the study results were welcomed by experts in the field. Robert Story, a cardiology professor at the University of Sheffield, highlighted the potential of the study to prevent strokes by identifying individuals who were previously unaware of their atrial fibrillation.

This groundbreaking research opens up new possibilities for early detection and intervention in individuals at high risk of stroke. With further improvements, this technology could potentially save lives and improve the overall health outcomes of individuals with atrial fibrillation.

What are the advantages of using sensors attached to grocery carts as a screening tool for atrial fibrillation

Ead recruited over 1,000 participants to test the technology in several major supermarkets across the UK. Participants were asked to use the grocery carts with the ECG sensors attached while they shopped. The researchers found that the sensors accurately detected atrial fibrillation in 78% of cases.

According to Professor Jones, the technology has the potential to revolutionize the early detection and prevention of strokes. Currently, strokes are one of the leading causes of death and disability worldwide, and early identification of high-risk individuals could significantly reduce the incidence of strokes.

The researchers believe that the use of sensors attached to grocery carts has several advantages. First, it is a non-invasive and convenient method of screening for atrial fibrillation. Shoppers do not need to undergo any special tests or procedures, simply using the cart while shopping provides the necessary data.

Second, the use of grocery carts as a screening tool allows for a large-scale and cost-effective approach to identify individuals at risk. Supermarkets are a common destination for people of all ages and backgrounds, providing an opportunity to reach a wide range of individuals who may not have accessed traditional healthcare services.

Lastly, the technology also has the potential to raise awareness about atrial fibrillation. By incorporating the flashing red cross and green checkmark on the cart handle, individuals become more conscious of their heart health. This could prompt them to seek medical advice and undergo further testing if necessary.

Professor Jones and his team are now working on refining the technology and making it commercially available. They believe that this innovation has the potential to be implemented in supermarkets across the country, contributing to more accessible and widespread screening for atrial fibrillation.

Overall, this new study highlights the potential of utilizing everyday objects, such as grocery carts, to improve healthcare. By incorporating sensors and technology into our daily lives, we can enhance early detection and prevention of various diseases, including stroke.