The Heart Rhythm Project

• Research type

  Research Study

• Full title

  Detection of Atrial Fibrillation in community locations using novel technology's as a method of stroke prevention in the over 65's asymptomatic population - Should it become standard practise?

• IRAS ID

  166703

• Contact name

  Olivia Waring

• Contact email

  olivia.waring@nhs.net

• Sponsor organisation

  University Hospital South Manchester

• Duration of Study in the UK

  1 years, 0 months, 1 days

• Research summary

  Atrial Fibrillation (AF) is the most common cardiac arrhythmia affecting approximately 3.8% of people >65 years in the UK. This project will therefore screen individuals over 65years, primarily in community settings, for Atrial Fibrillation in order to reduce the likelihood of Stroke. Under supervision of trained cardiac physiologists, trained volunteers are available to screen participant’s heart rhythm using ‘Alivecors’ handheld monitors. The ECGs will be analysed to determine the incidence of a significant heart rhythm abnormality;

  1) Using the AliveCor automatic algorithm
  2) By a (non doctor) cardiac physiologist
  3) By a consultant cardiac electrophysiologist

  The quality of analysis will be compared to a "gold standard" report from a consultant cardiologist with a specialist interest in heart rhythm disorders. If the patients have an abnormality they will be contacted and informed appropriately. The project aims to:

  •Determine both the accuracy and efficacy of a lead I ECG monitor in detecting cardiac arrhythmias in individuals >65years.

  •To determine the rates of undetected AF in community based settings in individuals >65 years.

  •To determine the cost effectiveness of a lead 1 ECG screening programme in different community settings.

• REC name

  North West - Liverpool Central Research Ethics Committee

• REC reference

  15/NW/0100

• Date of REC Opinion

  17 Feb 2015

• REC opinion

  Further Information Favourable Opinion