A Ring's Early Warning: How Tech Hinted at Hidden Cancer

Casey Cattie, a 30-year-old from Philadelphia, started experiencing strange night sweats last August. She was cold, yet soaked in sweat, even with a fan on. Her Oura Ring, a gift from a friend, kept alerting her to possible illness. Despite seeing multiple doctors, none could find the cause. Her symptoms worsened over time. Fevers joined the night sweats, but doctors found nothing unusual in her bloodwork. A hematologist oncologist even ruled out cancer, noting no palpable lymph nodes. Yet, Cattie felt something was off. During a trip to Iceland, her condition deteriorated rapidly. She struggled to breathe and felt unusually weak. Doctors there discovered a massive pleural effusion, a buildup of fluid around her lungs. They suspected cancer and recommended further tests. Back home, a PET scan and lymph node biopsy confirmed her diagnosis: Stage 4 Hodgkin lymphoma. The cancer had spread to her lymph nodes deep in her chest, causing fluid buildup. She started chemotherapy immediately. Cattie's Oura Ring had been picking up on her spiking temperatures all along. While it couldn't pinpoint the exact issue, it signaled that something was wrong. This highlights how wearable tech can sometimes detect health issues before symptoms become obvious. Hodgkin lymphoma is a type of cancer that affects white blood cells, often starting in the lymph nodes. Common symptoms include fever and night sweats. Treatment usually involves chemotherapy, immunotherapy, or radiation. Wearable devices like smartwatches and rings are great at tracking heart rate and detecting shifts in baseline metrics. However, they can't always identify the exact cause of these changes. If your device signals an abnormality, it's important to consult a doctor. Cattie is now more than halfway through her treatment. She's experienced side effects like nerve damage and chronic dehydration but remains hopeful. Her story underscores the importance of listening to your body and advocating for your health.