Prediction of Heart-Failure with Machine Learning
This study aims to discover if data collected from an Apple Watch can help predict changes in the health of people with heart failure. Specifically, it's looking at whether information from the watch, such as heart rate, activity levels, and sleep patterns, can give an early warning if someone is at risk of their heart failure worsening or needing to be re-admitted to the hospital. The researchers are collecting this information from patients already receiving standard care and combining it with other medical details. The goal is to develop a smart computer program (using something called 'machine learning') that can learn from this data and help doctors better understand and manage heart failure, potentially leading to earlier intervention and better care for patients.
At a glance
What is this study about?
Imagine using your Apple Watch not just for fitness, but to help your doctors understand and manage your heart failure. This study is exploring just that. Researchers want to see if the information gathered by an Apple Watch – things like your heart rate, how much you move, your oxygen levels, and even your temperature at night – can give clues about your heart health.
The main idea is to find out if these pieces of information can help predict when someone with heart failure might start to feel worse, or if they might need to go back to the hospital. By collecting this data from patients and then using clever computer programs, the scientists hope to develop a system that can spot early warning signs. This could allow doctors to step in sooner, potentially preventing serious health problems before they happen.
Ultimately, this research could lead to new tools that help people with heart failure live better and stay healthier, by giving doctors more insights into their day-to-day well-being outside of traditional hospital visits. It's about finding new ways to use everyday technology to improve healthcare.
Key takeaways
- Researchers are using Apple Watches to study heart failure.
- The watch collects health data like heart rate and activity.
- Goal is to predict when heart failure might worsen or need hospitalisation.
- Hopes to create early warning systems for doctors.
- You won't change your usual medical treatment.
- Data collected is handled securely and confidentially.
Who may be eligible?
This study is looking for adults aged 18 or older who have a specific type of heart failure called 'Heart Failure with Reduced Ejection Fraction' (HFrEF). This means your heart's main pumping chamber (the left ventricle) isn't pumping blood as strongly as it should.
To join, you must currently be in hospital because your heart failure has worsened, and you'll need to be willing and able to use an Apple Watch. You'll also need to show at least one common sign of fluid build-up, like swelling, fluid around your lungs, or fluid in your tummy area.
There are a few reasons you might not be able to join. For example, if you have another major illness that means you're not expected to live for more than six months, if you can't use a smartwatch, or if you have serious problems with your heart valves that would affect the study results.
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- Are you 18 years old or older?
- Do you have 'Heart Failure with Reduced Ejection Fraction' (HFrEF)?
- Are you currently in hospital because your heart failure has worsened?
- Are you willing and able to use an Apple Watch?
- Do you have signs of fluid build-up like swelling or fluid around your lungs?
- Do you *not* have other serious illnesses that mean your life expectancy is less than 6 months?
What does participation involve?
If you join this study, we'll ask you to wear an Apple Watch. The Watch will automatically collect information about your health, such as your heart rate, how much you move, and your sleep patterns. This data will be securely gathered from the watch.
Alongside this, we'll also collect some of your routine medical information that's already being taken as part of your normal heart failure care. This means you won't need extra tests or procedures just for the study. The study involves collecting this data over a period after you've been in hospital for your heart failure. You won't be given any new medications or treatments specifically for the study. You can continue with your usual medical care as advised by your doctors. The full duration of your involvement will depend on the follow-up period specified for the study, but it primarily involves wearing the watch and allowing data to be collected.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- University Medical Center GoettingenUnverifiedGoettigen, Germany· Recruiting
Common questions
What kind of information will my Apple Watch collect?
It will collect things like your heart rate, oxygen levels, how much you move (steps), your sleep patterns, and nighttime temperature.
Will I need to change my medication or treatment?
No, this study doesn't involve changing your current heart failure medications or treatments. You'll continue with your usual care.
How long will I need to wear the Apple Watch?
The study collects data over a specific follow-up period after you've been in hospital for heart failure, which will be explained to you.
Is my personal health information safe?
Yes, all your health data will be handled securely and kept confidential. It will be used only for research purposes.
What is 'machine learning'?
It's a type of computer program that can learn from data to find patterns and make predictions, almost like teaching a computer to recognise things about your health.
How to find out more
Soeren Sievers, Dr. med.
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Interested in taking part?
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