An iPhone case capable of detecting heart rhythm problems to help prevent strokes demonstrates what is possible when research is properly funded, the National Heart Foundation of Australia says.

New research from the University of Sydney part-funded by the Heart Foundation, National Health & Medical Research Council and industry bodies, shows the AliveCor Heart Monitor for iPhone (iECG) is an accurate and cheap way to screen patients for previously undiagnosed atrial fibrillation (AF).

Atrial Fibrillation is the most common heart rhythm problem, responsible for almost one third of all strokes.

"The development of the iECG device shows just how important research and fundraising is in the fight against heart disease and stroke," Dr Robert Grenfell, the Heart Foundation's National Director of Cardiovascular Health, said.

"Last year, we were able to direct $13.5 million in funding to support 195 researchers. This year through the Heart Foundation Big Heart Appeal, we hope to raise $5 million to continue funding this kind of world-class research.

"When you consider that atrial fibrillation alone costs our health system more than $870 million every year, the generous gifts of everyday Australians are critical to helping us continue our lifesaving work."

Using the iECG, patients can be screened for atrial fibrillation in minutes, enabling earlier treatment, a huge boost in the fight to reduce the amount of strokes, particularly in people over 65.

When taking a reading, the iECG is viewed on the iPhone screen and beamed to a secure server where specialists can review the iECGs online. Researchers tested the website's automatic prediction and found it correctly diagnoses AF 97% of the time.

The University's iECG research was presented at the Cardiac Society of Australia and New Zealand conference in Queensland on August 9, 2013.

Big Heart Appeal: This September, big-hearted Australians are helping save lives and making world-class research possible by supporting the Heart Foundation Big Heart Appeal. Donations to the Big Heart Appeal can be made by giving generously to doorknock volunteers or by donating online: www.heartfoundation.org.au/bigheart

- Heart Foundation