What is the best wearable tech for health?

Article Source: ScienceDirect

Why you should care

With wearable technology advancing rapidly, we now have access to devices that do more than just track steps. Today’s wearables can monitor heart health, blood sugar, sleep patterns, and even stress levels, helping us keep a close eye on our wellness and manage conditions like diabetes or hypertension. Investing in the right wearable can improve your health insights, potentially preventing health issues before they arise.

Answering the question… What is the best wearable tech for health?

Research shows that the most effective health wearables are those that provide accurate, continuous data on specific health metrics. Devices like the Apple Watch Series 6, which tracks heart rate and can detect irregular rhythms, and the Fitbit Sense, known for stress and sleep tracking, stand out. The study highlights that features like real-time feedback, user-friendly interfaces, and compatibility with other health platforms make these devices essential for effective health management.

How was the study done?

This study reviewed multiple wearable devices across categories like heart rate monitors, glucose trackers, and sleep analyzers, evaluating their accuracy, user satisfaction, and clinical usability. Researchers gathered data from device users and healthcare professionals, analyzing which wearables provide the best health insights and are most practical for everyday use.

What was discovered?

• Smartwatches like the Apple Watch monitor heart rates with 95% accuracy and can detect conditions such as atrial fibrillation.
• Continuous Glucose Monitors (CGMs), like the Dexcom G6, have improved diabetes management, offering real-time blood sugar readings with a ±9% variance.
• Fitness trackers such as the Fitbit and Garmin provide accurate step counting and activity monitoring, benefiting users aiming for daily activity goals.
• Blood pressure monitors, like the Omron HeartGuide, record readings with up to 90% accuracy, providing real-time tracking for people managing hypertension.
• Sleep trackers, including the Oura Ring, analyze sleep stages with up to 85% accuracy, allowing users to improve their sleep quality through detailed feedback.

Why does it matter?

Wearable health tech offers more than just data; it empowers users with actionable insights. By tracking key health metrics in real time, these devices help in early detection of conditions like heart disease and diabetes, potentially reducing long-term healthcare costs. The growth of wearable tech means we can now integrate health monitoring seamlessly into our lives, providing a proactive approach to health that was previously only possible through clinical visits.

Read more here: ScienceDirect