EKG or Electrocardiogram of a patient showing symptoms of Atrial Fibrillation. spxChrome
Austrian Digital Atrial Fibrillation Screening and Intervention Program – “Austrian Digital Heart Program”
Start: October 2023
Field of research: Atrial fibrillation
Lead Institution: Medical University Innsbruck
Partner institutions: Austrian Institute of Technology (AIT), Medical University Graz, UMIT Tirol
Head: Assoz. Prof. Priv.-Doz. Dr. Sebastian Reinstadler, PhD
Mentor: Univ.-Prof. Dr. Axel Bauer
Deputy Head: Dr. Michael Schreinlechner
Contact: vasb@chyfxbagebyyr.ng
Austrian Digital Heart Program – Pulskontrolle
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is one of the most common cardiac arrhythmias, particularly in older adults. It causes an irregular and less efficient heartbeat, increasing the risk of blood clots and stroke. In Austria, around 19,000 people suffer a stroke each year. While modern treatments can reduce severe consequences, early detection and prevention remain the most effective protection.
To support early identification of AF, the clinical research group Austrian Digital Heart Program developed the smartphone app “Pulskontrolle.” The app uses the smartphone camera and flash to measure pulse signals at the fingertip. Each recording is analyzed for irregularities that may indicate AF. If suspected, an ECG is required to confirm the diagnosis. Participants receive structured guidance and evidence-based information on AF, heart-healthy lifestyle measures, and treatment options.
Pilot Phase and Optimization
In the pilot phase, more than 100 participants aged 65+ were enrolled at the Medical Universities of Innsbruck and Graz to evaluate usability and technical performance. The results provided valuable insights for optimizing the app and preparing the large-scale study. Because the study is conducted entirely digitally and without personal contact, special emphasis is placed on intuitive design, accessibility, and ease of use—particularly for individuals over 65 years of age.
Large-Scale Austrian Study
Based on the pilot results, the study protocol for the nationwide trial has been finalized and submitted to the ethics committee for approval.
The planned main study aims to enroll approximately 100,000 participants across Austria (50,000 per study group). This will allow robust evaluation of whether large-scale digital AF screening can help prevent strokes at the population level.
ECG Patch Evaluation
In parallel, a randomized study comparing five different ECG patches has been initiated and is close to completion. So far, approximately 140 participants have been enrolled. The objective is to identify the ECG patch that combines high signal quality with simple and reliable usability for individuals aged 65 and older. The selected system will be used in the nationwide main study.
Health Economic Impact
UMIT Tirol is additionally evaluating the potential health-economic impact of early AF detection. Early diagnosis and preventive treatment may reduce long-term healthcare costs and prevent severe complications such as stroke.
