How the AHA's Health Tech Competition Sparks Cardiovascular Innovation

Innovative Finalists Pave the Way for Heart and Brain Health

On November 4, 2025, the American Heart Association (AHA) announced the finalists for its 8th annual Health Tech Competition, a critical forum aimed at tackling cardiovascular disease and stroke—two leading causes of global mortality. This year's competition features five innovative startups that will showcase their solutions live during the AHA’s Scientific Sessions in New Orleans on November 8 and 9.

Addressing a Growing Health Crisis

With heart disease and stroke accounting for nearly one-third of all global deaths—an urgent call for new technologies has never been stronger. Innovations in health technology promise to bridge the gap between research advancements and real-world clinical applications. The AHA’s Health Tech Competition serves as a pivotal platform where emerging companies can present solutions designed to improve cardiovascular care.

Finalists’ Solutions Explained

The selected finalists are:

• Brainomix (Oxford, England): This company has developed AI-powered software aimed at improving stroke diagnosis and treatment decisions. Their approach utilizes advanced algorithms to facilitate timely medical interventions, crucial in stroke management.
• Cambrian Health (San Francisco): Focusing on clinical best practices, their AI platform ensures that healthcare providers follow the latest protocols seamlessly at the point of care, ultimately improving patient care quality.
• Lumia (Boston): Specializing in wearable technology, Lumia aims to aid patients with orthostatic intolerance through continuous physiological monitoring, providing real-time data to enhance patient management.
• Noah Labs (Berlin): Transforming voice data into digital biomarkers, Noah Labs offers a non-invasive screening method to enable earlier interventions for cardiometabolic diseases.
• PolyVascular (Houston, Texas): Developing minimally invasive solutions specifically for children with congenital heart disease, they aim to reduce the need for repeated surgeries.

Evaluating Innovative Technology

The presentations during the competition will be evaluated based on three criteria: validity, scientific rigor, and impact. Expert judges comprising cardiologists, healthcare investors, and advocates will assess how effectively these technologies function in real-world scenarios, their foundation in evidence-based research, and their overall potential to enhance patient outcomes.

The Role of the AHA in Health Innovation

Experts like Eric D. Peterson, M.D., and Nancy Brown, AHA’s CEO, emphasize the vital role of this platform in accelerating innovation within cardiovascular care. "The true essence of healthcare technology lies not just in its invention, but in its ability to be adopted and integrated into regular patient care," said Dr. Peterson.

The Future of Cardiovascular Health

As the competition unfolds, the potential for these finalists to reshape cardiovascular health outcomes is significant. The innovations showcased highlight a trend towards integrating artificial intelligence and wearable technology in patient care, paving the way for more responsive and personalized healthcare solutions.

Conclusion: A Call to Action for Health Advancement

The advancements presented at the AHA Health Tech Competition represent not just the ingenuity of their creators but the hope of millions worldwide affected by heart disease and stroke. Staying informed and engaged with such innovations not only benefits healthcare providers but can also empower patients to take proactive steps in their health management.

As we look ahead, the collaboration between tech innovators and healthcare practitioners remains essential in the quest for effective cardiovascular solutions. For those interested in the intersection of health and technology, following the outcomes of this competition can provide valuable insights into the future of patient care.