Advances and challenges of technologies in cardiac health monitoring

Abstract

The advancement of health technologies has improved cardiological care, highlighting wearable devices that enable continuous monitoring, early disease detection, and more precise and effective interventions. This study aimed to analyze the implementation of wearable technologies in cardiology through a literature review, emphasizing their impacts and innovations. A systematic literature review with a qualitative and descriptive approach was conducted. The search was performed in databases such as MEDLINE, LILACS, and BDENF, using the descriptors "wearable electronic devices" AND "health" and "wearable electronic devices" AND "cardiology," along with their Portuguese equivalents: “Dispositivos Eletrônicos Vestíveis” AND “Saúde” and “Dispositivos Eletrônicos Vestíveis” AND “Cardiologia.” After screening 2,368 articles, seven studies were selected for analysis. The data were organized and presented in tables, facilitating the discussion of key findings. The study encountered challenges in locating research specifically focused on cardiology, indicating a gap in the literature, despite an increasing trend in publications in 2024. Devices such as accelerometers and wearable electrocardiograms were highlighted as essential for monitoring and promoting patient autonomy, although barriers related to privacy and costs persist. This study underscored the potential of wearable devices in cardiology, enhancing the monitoring and management of cardiac conditions. However, limitations such as unequal access, high costs, and privacy concerns must be addressed to ensure their effectiveness and inclusivity.

Keywords: Cardiovascular Digital Health; Remote Cardiac Monitoring; Wearable Technology for Cardiac Health.