Samsung Galaxy Watch Active2 Gets ECG Tech
May 25, 2020Samsung’s ECG tech has just made it past South Korea’s Ministry of Food and Drug Safety (MFDS). The approval signals its effectiveness at measuring and analyzing heart rythms for irregularities indicating Atrial Fibrillation (AFib). Normally, a heart contracts and relaxes to a regular beat, but in AFib, the upper chambers beat irregularly.
AFib, the most common type of abnormal heart rhythm, can significantly increase the risk of complications that include blood clots, heart failure and stroke. It is estimated that 33.5 million people worldwide that suffer from this condition. AFib and hypertension are said to be leading causes of people developing a stroke. Early detection and intervention could help avert disaster.
We’ve covered two stories like this in the past where Apple’s smartwatch, equipped with similar tech, were able to warn wearers of their irregular heartbeat. Some of these people weren’t even aware that they were suffering from an underlying health problem. And as such, attribute the Apple Watch to saving their lives.
Now, Samsung’s ECG monitoring system, which will make its way into its Galaxy Watch Active2 within Q3, aims to do the same. What’s more, MFDS also cleared Samsung’s Health Monitor app recently for blood pressure measurement. This effectively, allows the Active2 to monitor ECG and BP.
In the case of Samsung’s ECG sensor, it works by analyzing the heart’s electrical activity. In order to use it:
- The watch must be placed firmly on your wrist.
- Next, rest your forearm on a flat surface and lightly place a fingertip from the opposite hand on the top button on the Galaxy Watch Active2 for 30 seconds
- The app will then measure your heart rate and rhythm, which will be classified as either a Sinus Rhythm (a normal, regular heartbeat) or AFib (when the heart beats irregularly).
Samsung says that its tech can provide an insight into a user’s health, which they can then share with their doctor for a proper and thorough diagnosis. The Samsung Health Monitor app will make its way to the Galaxy Watch Active2 later this year, and will be included in upcoming watch models.
Heart Clinical Information Source: Heart.org
