Digital Screening for Atrial Fibrillation to Prevent Stroke

The Austrian Digital Heart Study is a population-based, siteless, randomized, controlled digital trial testing whether a smartphone-based atrial fibrillation screening and management pathway reduces stroke hospitalizations compared with usual care. Adults aged 65 years or older in Austria are randomized to either a digital intervention using the 'Pulskontrolle' app or to usual care. The intervention includes smartphone-camera photoplethysmography for atrial fibrillation screening, confirmatory 7-day ECG patch monitoring in case of suspected atrial fibrillation, and digital education and management support. The primary outcome is hospitalization for stroke of any type within 48 months.