AI stethoscope could detect major heart conditions in seconds

Artificial intelligence is changing the way doctors find and treat heart problems. A team of British researchers has tested a new AI-powered stethoscope that can detect three major heart conditions in just seconds. The original stethoscope, invented in 1816, allowed doctors to listen to the sounds inside a patient's body. Now, this modern version uses advanced technology to spot heart failure, heart valve disease, and abnormal heart rhythms almost instantly. The researchers believe this device could be a game-changer, helping patients get treatment much sooner. They plan to introduce the AI stethoscope across the UK after a successful study in 205 GP surgeries in London.

The new AI stethoscope is different from the traditional one. Instead of the usual chest piece, it has a device about the size of a playing card. It uses a microphone to pick up tiny differences in heartbeat and blood flow that humans cannot hear. The device also performs an ECG, which records the heart's electrical signals. All the information is sent to the cloud, where AI analyzes it using data from tens of thousands of patients. In the study, more than 12,000 patients from 96 surgeries were examined with AI stethoscopes made by Eko Health, a US company. The results were compared to patients from 109 surgeries where the technology was not used. The researchers found that people with heart failure were 2. 33 times more likely to have it detected within a year when examined with the AI stethoscope. Abnormal heart rhythms, which can increase the risk of stroke but often have no symptoms, were 3. 5 times more likely to be found. Heart valve disease was 1. 9 times more likely to be detected.

Dr Sonya Babu-Narayan, clinical director at the British Heart Foundation and a consultant cardiologist, said this is a great example of how old medical tools can be upgraded for modern times. She explained that these innovations are important because heart conditions are often only diagnosed when patients are very sick and need emergency care. With earlier diagnosis, people can get the treatment they need and live healthier lives. The findings were presented to thousands of doctors at the European Society of Cardiology annual congress in Madrid, the world's largest heart conference. There are plans to introduce the AI stethoscopes to GP practices in south London, Sussex, and Wales. This new technology could help many people by finding heart problems earlier and making sure they get the right care.