The Integration of Artificial Intelligence Into Patient Care: A Case of Atrial Fibrillation Caught by a Smartwatch

Artificial intelligence (AI) offers a wide range of applications in clinical practice, and new technologies are rapidly evolving the healthcare industry and enhancing outcomes. Smartwatches represent the most popular type of wearable AI device that can assist people in detecting cardiac arrhythmias via constant monitoring of heart activity. Numerous advantages result from integrating AI into healthcare systems, including improved patient care, lower rates of medical errors, better treatment recommendations, and more accurate diagnosis of diseases. However, doubts still remain regarding the adoption of AI into patient care due to the challenges it poses. In this paper, we report a case of atrial fibrillation (AF) in a young patient that was detected by his smartwatch. We also highlight some of the benefits and challenges of AI applications in healthcare.

Alcohol and Atrial Fibrillation: A Sobering Review

Alcohol is popular in Western culture, supported by a perception that modest intake is cardioprotective. However, excessive drinking has detrimental implications for cardiovascular disease. Atrial fibrillation (AF) following an alcohol binge or the "holiday heart syndrome" is well characterized. However, more modest levels of alcohol intake on a regular basis may also increase the risk of AF. The pathophysiological mechanisms responsible for the relationship between alcohol and AF may include direct toxicity and alcohol's contribution to obesity, sleep-disordered breathing, and hypertension. We aim to provide a comprehensive review of the epidemiology and pathophysiology by which alcohol may be responsible for AF and determine whether alcohol abstinence is required for patients with AF.