Boston Scientific has temporarily halted enrollment in its AVANT GUARD trial, which is evaluating the FARAPULSE Pulsed Field Ablation (PFA) System for persistent atrial fibrillation (AFib). The pause is due to unanticipated observations in the trial, which is focusing on drug-naive patients, a population not currently indicated for PFA treatment. The company emphasizes that the observations are not life-threatening and that they remain confident in the FARAPULSE system’s overall performance.
The Ultrahuman Ring Air has become the first smart ring to offer atrial fibrillation (AFib) detection. This feature is part of Ultrahuman’s new PowerPlugs app store and requires a subscription. The ring monitors heart rhythm and alerts users to potential AFib, a feature the CEO calls ‘lifesaving technology.’ While the feature is available in limited markets, it’s expected to launch in the US and India soon. Ultrahuman also opened its data streams to developers, paving the way for more apps and features in its PowerPlugs store, some of which will be paid.
Independent presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has been hiding serious medical conditions, including a dead parasite in his brain, atrial fibrillation, and mercury poisoning. Kennedy has failed to disclose these conditions to the public, raising concerns about his fitness for office. The Kennedy campaign has refused to release his medical records, and Kennedy’s spokeswoman has dismissed concerns about his health as “hilarious.” However, standards for candidate disclosure have changed, and more candor is expected from candidates. The question remains whether this sort of subterfuge is acceptable from a major candidate.
Researchers have developed an AI-based model that can predict cardiac arrhythmia, commonly known as irregular heartbeat, approximately 30 minutes before its onset. This breakthrough could revolutionize heart health management by providing patients with timely warnings to take preventive measures and maintain a stable cardiac rhythm.
