Supermarket trolleys fitted with ECG sensors may help prevent stroke risk: study

Supermarket trolleys equipped with electrocardiogram (ECG) sensors could help diagnose atrial fibrillation – the common heart rhythm disorder – that can be treated to prevent disabling or fatal strokes. In a two-month study, researchers from Liverpool John Moores University in the UK were able to use ECG sensor-built trolleys to identify 39 patients who were unaware they had atrial fibrillation.

“There are 39 people who are at high risk of stroke who have received a cardiologist appointment,” said University Professor Ian Jones. These findings were presented at ACNAP 2023, the ongoing scientific conference of the European Society of Cardiology.

More than 40 million people worldwide suffer from atrial fibrillation, the most common heart rhythm disorder. Atrial fibrillation increases the risk of stroke fivefold. These strokes are often fatal or disabling.

Also Read: Remedies For Heartburn In Pregnancy: 4 Tips To Manage Acidity Effectively – Explains Expert

Many people find out they have atrial fibrillation only after they have had a stroke, and so screening programs are needed to identify people with the condition so they can receive preventive medication. “This study shows the potential to bring health screenings to the masses without disrupting daily routines,” Jones said.

The study examined 10 trolleys fitted with ECG sensors in the handles to effectively identify shoppers with atrial fibrillation. They were used in four supermarkets along with pharmacies in Liverpool during the two-month study.

Shoppers were asked to use the modified trolley and hold the handlebar for at least 60 seconds. If the sensor does not detect an irregular heartbeat, it lights up green, and if it does, the light will be red. These participants were given a manual pulse check by a researcher to confirm that there was no atrial fibrillation.

The study cardiologist reviewed the ECG recordings of participants with a red light and/or irregular pulse. A total of 2,155 adults used a shopping trolley. ECG data was available for 220 participants who either had a red light on the sensor and/or an irregular pulse, suggesting atrial fibrillation.

Results showed no evidence of atrial fibrillation in 115 participants, recordings were ambiguous in 46, and atrial fibrillation was diagnosed in 59 participants. Of those, 20 already knew they had atrial fibrillation and 39 had not been previously diagnosed.

“Atrial fibrillation screening holds promise for preventing strokes and saving lives when people make routine purchases,” Jones said.