Development of an ECG Smart Jersey Based on Next Generation Computing for Automated Detection of Heart Defects Among Athletes

Abstract

Heart defects have remained one of the top causes of death in the world. As much as sporting activities and exercises are considered beneficial for the health of an individual, there are also a few but significant demerits as huge populations of athletes suffer from heart defects. This is especially pronounced among those who participate in strenuous activities for long periods of time. One of the oldest and most useful diagnostic tools for heart disease is the electrocardiograph. However, they remain bulky, heavy and not wearable. They also often require the help of medical professionals to interpret the electrocardiogram. As a result, the preliminary results of the implementation of a prototype ECG Smart Jersey using Next Generation Computing (which include IoT, Machine Learning and Android App) for the automated detection of heart defects among athletes is presented in this paper. The prototype is a proof of concept, which could be further enhanced to ensure that a wearable and automated ECG monitoring, analysis and interpretation is accomplished for athletes in order to reduce the burden of sudden deaths among them.