Automated serial ECG-analysis within an epidemiological study.

Since 1980 we have performed a cohort study in order to develop diagnostic and predictive algorithms for myocardial infarction. These algorithms shall be based on cardiovascular risk factors, ECG-measurements and serial measurement changes. An intermediate analysis of 5524 study participants describes observed measurement changes stratified by age and sex. The values thus obtained may serve for reference purposes and illustrate the influence of age and sex on intraindividual ECG-measurement changes. Specific suggestions are made for future program developments in order to overcome some present problems in serial ECG-analysis.