JAMA 320, 146–155 (2018).

Atrial fibrillation is the most common sustained arrhythmia, and it substantially increases the risk of stroke in affected individuals. Its diagnosis is important for the correct prescription of anticoagulants to reduce the risk of stroke and is currently made during screening at regular medical checks.

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In a clinical trial, participants at high risk for atrial fibrillation wore a self-applied wearable electrocardiogram (ECG) patch that could diagnose this heart disorder. The rate of atrial fibrillation diagnosis and engagement with health care were higher among individuals who wore the device, indicating the effectiveness of these wearable diagnostic devices.