Supermarket trolley sensors could help to identify risk of stroke, say scientists

Study with 2,155 participants at Sainsbury's stores leads to atrial fibrillation diagnosis for 39 people unaware they had condition

Supermarket trolleys may be known for their wonky wheels and rusty frames, but researchers say the carts could be used to save lives by helping to identify people at risk of stroke through sensors in their handles.

According to the British Heart Foundation, one in 45 people in the UK are living with atrial fibrillation (AF), which causes an abnormal heart rhythm and can increase the risk of stroke. While people may be unaware they have the condition, early detection and diagnosis is important as treatments are available.