We used to rely on pedometers and simple activity trackers to count our steps and estimate the calories we burned through exercise. But now, that has evolved into high-tech wearable gadgets that are able to measure our heart rhythms, blood pressure and even sleeping patterns.
But how accurate are these wearable devices, and how can they actually help you monitor or improve your health? Karen Basen-Engquist, Ph.D., director of UT MD Anderson’s Center for Energy Balance in Cancer Prevention and Survivorship, suggests that wearable technology may be a solid first step.
What is wearable health technology?
“Wearable health technology is any device worn on the body that provides useful real-time feedback about how your body is functioning and about your health,” Basen-Engquist says.
These devices include consumer-grade smartwatches, bands and rings that you can buy in stores or online. But they also include medical-grade equipment like heart rate or electrocardiogram monitors worn on your chest.
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