Scientists developed a tattoo that detects heart problems

Scientists in the United States have developed an electronic tattoo that monitors the heart and detects signs of illness, such as irregular rhythms, without causing any serious issues.

The sensor, which tracks heart movements and has a thin design like temporary tattoos, is referred to as an e-tattoo.

Roughly the size of a credit card, the e-tattoo is the first mobile device capable of performing two tests, EKG and SCG, enabling simultaneous monitoring of the heart’s electrical and mechanical functions.

Developers from the University of Texas at Austin emphasize the significance of the device developed for early detection and prompt treatment of heart issues. For instance, it is estimated that there are over 300,000 individuals in the United Kingdom alone with a common heart rhythm disorder that increases the risk of stroke.

Professor Nanshu Lu from the Aerospace and Engineering Department states, “If we can perform continuous mobile monitoring at home, then we can achieve early diagnosis and treatment, and if that can be done, 80% of heart diseases can be prevented.”

Easier Patient Monitoring: Currently, patients suspected of having heart disease are either monitored in hospitals or provided with devices for home use. It is expected that monitoring patients with e-tattoos will be much more convenient.

The e-tattoo is attached to the chest and operates on a tiny, easily replaceable battery that lasts approximately 40 hours. The collected data is then transmitted to a mobile application via Bluetooth.

Researchers have tested the e-tattoo on five healthy male participants in their 20s so far and found it to have a low error rate compared to other existing monitoring options. The researchers stated, “Our study demonstrates the potential of e-tattoos as a monitoring tool.”

Chris Gale, a professor of cardiovascular medicine at the University of Leeds, said, “Technology for continuous monitoring of an individual’s heart rate is progressing at an incredible pace. Small, wearable devices that allow for long-term monitoring of heartbeats will detect many more arrhythmias and provide assurance to patients who have symptoms but have normal heart rates.”