Game change in wearable technology with the latest Apple Watch
Bottom Line: A few years back Apple’s Tim Cook said that the most rewarding story from a customer he’d received, in his multi-decade career at Apple, came from a user who said it saved his life when the first generation watch alerted him that he was about to have a major cardiovascular event. The user went immediately to the hospital and sure enough he was on the brink of a heart attack that the physician suggested could have been deadly. That was a few years ago and wearable tech, especially with Apple’s effort to take the next step to create a true medical device that does all the fun stuff as well, has paid off.
Apple’s latest line of Watches has become 98% effective in detecting cardiovascular issues. This now includes the ability to accurately detect irregular heartbeats. In the latest studies 84% of the flagged irregular heartbeats were also attached to events that require medical attention. In other words, we’re truly at the point where these devices can save your life from the events that are the most likely to take it (for men). There’s an encouraging trend in the study group. Most are opting to receive medical attention when their device advises it.
According to this most recent study 57% of Apple Watch users did seek medical attention when altered to do so by the device. That’s great news but it also shows that an additional 27% needed medical attention but didn’t seek it. There are two takeaways here. Wearable technology, especially the latest versions of the Apple Watch have the potential to save your life. Also, if it tells you, there’s an issue you need to address, there’s a 98% chance it’s right.