Approved work: Wearable technologies – health opportunities and challenges

Wearable technologies can track vital signs, physical activity, and other health data, which can be analysed via apps or by healthcare providers. Examples include smartwatches, fitness trackers, and glucose monitors. Data monitoring may offer preventative health benefits, by enabling early detection of potential issues and encouraging healthier lifestyle choices. However, challenges include ensuring the accuracy and reliability of data, data protection and equity of access.

This POSTnote will provide an overview of latest developments in wearable technologies. It will summarise the evidence for how these technologies can accurately provide health data, and how this may impact health, lifestyle choices and behaviour. It will consider opportunities and challenges for wearable technologies to support NHS healthcare.

We welcome information on issues relevant to the project. To contribute to this research, please follow our guidance for contributors.