Wearable Tech Could Help Diagnose Hidden Heart Conditions

Cardiologist explains how smart rings and watches can track heart health

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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According to the CDC, one in five deaths in the U.S. is due to heart disease. A local cardiologist explains how wearable tech like smart rings and Apple Watches with heart-monitoring features can be effective at tracking undetected heart conditions.

Why it matters

Heart disease is a leading cause of death in the U.S., so any technology that can help detect hidden heart conditions early could have a significant impact on public health. Wearable devices are becoming more advanced in their health-tracking capabilities, raising questions about their potential role in diagnosing heart issues.

The details

Cardiologist Dr. Amr Barakat of Ascension St. Vincent's discussed the specific heart-monitoring features in wearable tech that can help identify undetected heart conditions. These devices are equipped with sensors that can track metrics like heart rate, rhythm, and other indicators of heart health.

  • According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, one out of every five deaths in the United States is due to heart disease.

The players

Dr. Amr Barakat

A cardiologist with Ascension St. Vincent's who discussed the heart-monitoring capabilities of wearable tech.

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The takeaway

Wearable devices with advanced heart-tracking features could play an important role in early detection of hidden heart conditions, which could help save lives and improve public health outcomes.