Can wearables predict when you are getting sick?

The benefit of wearables has been the topic of many debates; some feel the continuous data is not helpful and it all can quickly become overwhelming. Others believe the data is motivating and can be helpful in making healthier choices, we fall into this category. Wearables with built-in heart rate monitors brings an advantageous level of specificity into progressively training. Being able to track heart rate variability has helped many athletes listen to their body and ensure proper rest. For others, tracking daily steps has increased daily activity and improved their commitment to meeting daily goals. Recent studies show that wearables have the potential to predict if its wearers are getting sick; some wearables are able to track health metrics such as blood oxygen saturation and skin temperatures. Tracking these over time and noting when patterns change can indicate the body is undergoing changes or their health has been compromised. Normally, these metrics are measured in the doctor office which shows only a snapshot in time and can be elevated from nerves. Tracking over time better represents the whole picture of one’s health.

This could a big step in catching diseases earlier or it could cause some to worry. Thoughts? Would you be willing to invest in a wearable to track health metrics and monitor patterns?

Read more about the abilities of newer wearables here.

Author

Mackenzie Bannister