Over the past three to four years, we have witnessed a sudden spike in cardiac events, sometimes fatal. What is concerning is that the patients are getting younger. There has been a spate of healthy-looking people, in their 40s, succumbing to cardiac arrest. Accounting for about 27 per cent of deaths, heart disease has become a silent epidemic in India. Approximately six lakh individuals succumb to sudden cardiac death annually, a significant being under 50.
Atrial fibrillation (AFib), a common heart rhythm disorder, and hypertension contribute significantly to these statistics. AFib, characterised by irregular and rapid heartbeats, poses a heightened risk of complications such as stroke and heart failure. So, early detection and regular monitoring are paramount.
Despite efforts to raise awareness among the public and health care practitioners about hypertension, there remains a significant disparity in the number of people monitoring it. In a recent study from the Indian Council of Medical Research, 30 per cent of Indians aged 18-54 have never had their blood pressure (BP) checked.
Undetected and untreated hypertension elevates AFib risk threefold, and AFib increases stroke risk fivefold. This underlines the importance of monitoring Afib, along with hypertension, and can only be done when one measures ECG along with BP.
Patients, who consistently and accurately monitor their blood pressure fluctuations, can provide comprehensive data to health care providers, leading to better treatment strategies. While we have digital BP monitors available to track BP at home, home ECG monitoring solutions are the newer entrants and add more value. Unlike traditional methods that necessitate time-consuming visits to health care facilities, home ECG monitoring empowers individuals to monitor their heart’s health from the comfort of homes. There are advanced devices available now that enable patients to measure BP and electrocardiogram (ECG) readings and even detect AFib―all in one go, from home. It is important to note that AFib is not detected with just one or two measurements. A home monitoring device is crucial for identifying patterns and providing comprehensive data to health care providers.
These devices are user-friendly and clear to read. They look like standard home blood pressure monitors, with two electrodes on the sides, and can be connected to a smartphone app. Users need to place their thumb and index fingers on these electrodes to take their ECG. They can use the arm cuff for measuring blood pressure. The app not only displays your blood pressure and ECG readings but also tracks them over time. This data can be sent to your doctor in PDF format, providing them better insights into your health status.
The transition from reactive to proactive health care plays a pivotal role in preventing dire consequences linked with undetected heart conditions.
The writer is MD, OMRON Healthcare India.