How Can Wearables Detect Irregular Heartbeats? With: Dr. Euan Ashley

In this conversation, Dr. Euan Ashley explains how wearable devices can identify atrial fibrillation (AFib), a major risk factor for stroke, before symptoms occur. By monitoring the intervals between heartbeats, these devices detect the irregular rhythm characteristic of AFib, alerting users to seek medical evaluation. Unlike traditional detection methods—which require short-term clinical monitoring—wearables provide continuous, long-term observation, making it possible to catch AFib early, even years before it might be detected in a clinic. Ashley notes that while sophisticated AI can enhance diagnostics, detecting AFib requires only identifying regular versus irregular rhythms.