Top in cardiology: Smoking cessation benefits; Fitbit algorithm for atrial fibrillation

Researchers estimated that the lifetime benefit of smoking cessation on major cardiovascular events was similar to the use of several pharmaceutical treatments. It was the top story in cardiology last week.

The second top story was about the FDA approval of Fitbit’s photoplethysmography-based algorithm to detect atrial fibrillation (AF). The clearance was based on the results of the Fitbit Heart Study, which showed that the algorithm was associated with a positive predictive value of 98.2%.

Read these and more top stories in cardiology below:

Quitting smoking yields CV benefit equivalent of three medications

The estimated lifetime treatment benefit of smoking cessation was comparable to the use of several pharmaceutical treatments combined, even when the analysis was limited to major cardiovascular events, researchers reported. Read more.

Fitbit receives FDA clearance for algorithm to detect AF

The FDA has cleared Fitbit’s photoplethysmography-based algorithm to detect AF in wearers of its devices, the company announced. Read more.

AHA: Addressing ‘undiagnosed’ NAFLD could mitigate CVD risk

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease remains widely undiagnosed, yet early identification and treatment could mitigate long-term risk for CVD, according to a new American Heart Association scientific statement. Read more.

Smartwatch heart data less accurate for people with darker skin tones

Wearable devices may be less accurate for the detection of heart rate and rhythm in adults with darker skin tones, according to data from a meta-analysis presented at the American College of Cardiology Scientific Session. Read more.

Obesity may drive HF risk in late-onset menopause

Risk for developing heart failure is significantly greater for women with obesity compared with women with a lower BMI and waist circumference, particularly among those who begin menopause at age 55 years or older, data show. Read more.