A new wearable device developed by InfoBionic.Ai aims to leverage artificial intelligence to improve early stroke risk detection in individuals without prior heart conditions. According to Mark Goddard, the vice president of clinical services at the company, this innovative technology can monitor and identify significant changes in cardiac telemetry.
Expanding Stroke Risk Awareness
Currently, stroke assessments primarily focus on individuals aged 50 and above, who are statistically more susceptible to conditions like atrial fibrillation. Goddard highlighted that younger individuals often struggle to obtain initial assessments, largely due to insurance policies not covering preventive evaluations for those without medical histories. “Right now, it’s not easy to go get an initial assessment when you’re younger and have no health problems because insurance doesn’t pay for that,” he noted. This situation may change as awareness of stroke risks increases across all age groups.
The wearable AI device aims to fill this gap, allowing younger users to monitor their heart health proactively. Goddard emphasized the potential for the device to cater to a broader audience, stating that it could eventually be marketed to individuals of all ages, not just those traditionally considered at risk.
Potential for Young Athletes
In addition to general health monitoring, the device may serve a critical role in assessing young athletes. Goddard pointed out the nuanced data that AI tools can provide, which may prompt further diagnostic testing for those engaging in rigorous physical activities. “There are nuances within the waveforms … that can give you an idea of, ‘hey, maybe we should go a little bit deeper here and do a little bit more diagnostic testing to make sure that this athlete is really a good candidate for being an athlete,'” he explained.
As the healthcare landscape evolves, the integration of AI in medical assessments raises questions about trust and reliability. While the technology holds promise for early detection and prevention, potential customers will need to weigh the benefits against their concerns regarding artificial intelligence in healthcare.
As development continues, the potential impact of the wearable AI device on stroke prevention and overall cardiac health remains to be fully realized. The next steps will determine whether this technology can successfully bridge the gap in early detection, particularly among younger populations.