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Apple Watch Low Heart-Rate Alerts Lead to Brain Tumor Discovery

Doctors found the growth during a CT scan ordered after she reported headaches.

Brain tumor found by Apple Watch health heart sensors

Overview

  • The case involves 57-year-old Sam Adams of Brighton, East Sussex, whose account appeared in The Sun and was summarized by tech outlets.
  • Her Apple Watch repeatedly flagged a low heart rate after a trip to Costa Rica, which she initially attributed to exhaustion, grief and jet lag.
  • A pharmacist visit prompted further testing that identified ectopic heartbeats, and she later had a procedure to address an irregular rhythm.
  • A CT scan performed after she disclosed frequent headaches and a prior head injury revealed a brain tumor considered likely benign, with doctors opting for monitoring over surgery.
  • She now takes daily medication and receives regular scans, and reporters frame her experience as part of a growing set of anecdotes about wearables prompting significant medical diagnoses.