Google announced April 11, 2022, that Fitbit received FDA clearance for its photoplethysmography (PPG) algorithm to identify atrial fibrillation (A-fib). The algorithm will power Fitbit’s new irregular heart rhythm notification feature.
About Fitbit’s PPG algorithm
Fitbit’s PPG algorithm passively assesses heart rate while still or asleep. An optical heart rate sensor detects blood volume changes from a patient’s wrist. The detection algorithm then analyzes these measurements for irregularities and potential signs of A-fib. If analyzed data are consistent with signs of A-fib, a notification is displayed to the user.
The company’s press release notes that clinical validation for Fitbit’s PPG algorithm is supported by data from the Fitbit Heart Study, one of the largest remote studies of PPG-based software to date. Data found that Fitbit PPG detections correctly identified A-fib episodes 98% of the time as confirmed by ECG patch monitors.
The irregular heart rhythm notifications can be used to supplement the decision for A-fib screening. The feature is not intended for use in people under 22 years of age or in those previously diagnosed with A-fib.
The Fitbit PPG algorithm and irregular heart rhythm notifications feature will be available to U.S. consumers across a range of heart rate enabled devices.
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