Wearable device use and technology preferences in cancer survivors with or at risk for atrial fibrillation

Abstract

Background

Cancer survivors face increased risk of heart disease, including atrial fibrillation (AF). Certain types of technology, such as consumer wearable devices, can be useful to monitor for AF, but little is known about wearables and AF monitoring in cancer survivor populations.

Objective

The purpose of this study was to understand technology usage and preferences in cancer survivors with or at risk for AF, and to describe demographic factors associated with wearable device ownership in this population.

Methods

Eligible patients completed a remote survey assessment regarding use of commercial wearable devices. The survey contained questions designed to assess commercial wearable device use, electronic health communications, and perceptions regarding the participant’s cardiac health.

Results

A total of 424 cancer survivors (mean age 74.2 years; 53.1% female; 98.8% white) were studied. Although most participants owned a smartphone (85.9%), only 31.8% owned a wearable device. Over half (53.5%) of cancer survivors were worried about their heart health. Overall, patients believed arrhythmias (79.7%) were the most important heart condition for a wearable to detect. Survivors reported being most willing to share blood pressure (95.6%) and heart rate (95.3%) data with their providers and were least willing to share information about their diet, weight, and physical activity using these devices.

Conclusion

Understanding factors such as device ownership, usage, and heart health concerns in cancer survivors can play an important role in improving cardiovascular monitoring and its accessibility. Long-term patient outcomes may be improved by incorporating wearable devices into routine care of cancer survivors.