A smartwatch is more than just a timepiece—it’s your personal assistant, fitness coach, and communication hub, all wrapped around your wrist. Whether you're an athlete pushing your limits, a professional managing a busy schedule, or someone who simply loves convenience, a smartwatch transforms the way you interact with the world.
For 58-year-old Fong, an online entrepreneur, technology has always played a crucial role in his life. But little did he expect that his Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra would alert him to a potential heart condition—one that could have had life-threatening consequences if left undetected.
A year ago, he noticed his heart racing and decided to get it checked at a hospital. The doctors found nothing unusual, assuring him his heart was healthy. However, as someone meticulous about his well-being and regular checkups, he remained curious and determined to understand his condition. Living with high blood pressure, he knew the importance of monitoring his cardiovascular health. When he read about the Galaxy Watch’s ability to detect Atrial Fibrillation (AFib), an irregular and often rapid heart rhythm, he decided to purchase one to gain more insights into his heart health.
A Wake-Up Call: How Wearable Tech Detected AFib
One evening, as he was winding down, the watch detected his irregular heartbeat. At first, he was skeptical—he didn’t feel any symptoms other than fatigue. Encouraged by the data, Fong consulted his doctor and shared his smartwatch readings, prompting further medical examinations. Additional tests confirmed he was in the early stages of AFib.
“Not all stroke patients have AFib, but about 20% do, and many remain unaware until it’s too late. AFib progresses in stages, and once it becomes persistent, even medical procedures may not fully control it. It increases the risk of stroke because it can cause blood clots to form in the heart, which can then travel to the brain and block blood flow. However, many strokes occur due to other causes, such as hypertension, atherosclerosis, or small vessel disease,” he explained.
Early Detection, Better Outcomes
In January, he underwent surgery at CVSKL and has now recovered. This proactive approach helped him catch AFib early, reinforcing the importance of heart health monitoring and technology in preventive care.
Reflecting on the experience, Fong is now a firm advocate for wearable health technology. “Some people might think a smartwatch is just a gadget, but it’s an investment in your well-being. The cost of not knowing your health status is far greater than the price of a smartwatch,” he says.
Since his diagnosis, Fong has made lifestyle changes, incorporating more relaxation and regular monitoring into his routine. He and his family also find peace of mind knowing that he has a device keeping track of his heart health 24/7. Beyond detecting AFib, he invested in the watch to create a seamless ecosystem, integrating it with his existing devices for easy access to his health data. The Galaxy Watch Ultra goes beyond everyday convenience—its health monitoring capabilities offer real-time insights that can be life-changing.
As he continues to prioritise his health, Fong is also looking forward to the upcoming Samsung Sleep Apnea feature, which could provide even more insights into his sleeping patterns.
Fong’s story underscores the importance of early detection and proactive health management. The Galaxy Watch’s advanced monitoring capabilities, including Comprehensive Health Tracking, Fitness and Activity Insights, make it more than just a smartwatch. His experience serves as a reminder that sometimes, technology doesn’t just simplify our lives—it can help save them.
Visit HERE to learn more about the Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra features today!
The views expressed here are those of the author/contributor and do not necessarily represent the views of Malaysiakini.
