“The more the technology grows, the easier life becomes”
Day by day the world is changing. The man with his full potential is trying to make every hurdle disappear and bring the best out of the technologies that we have. And latest came the new technological innovation wearables. Many may wonder what this is all about and will be eager to know more about this technology which has turned out to be a much-discussed piece of innovation.
Anything that is worn to detect health or mobile applications and web monitoring to analyze health generally comes under the term wearables. The use of this in clinical practices are increasing day by day.
Wearables are currently growing highly in popularity with the hope of growth to $25 billion by 2019. The devices like Fitbit, jawbone etc have been popular among the public because of their cheap rates and affordability. With the rise of chronic conditions like obesity due to our lifestyles, use of this technology has reached the heights.
What makes it a better option??
The higher compliance rate, reduced dropout rate etc has added its relevance and also provides an additional advantage of reduced hospital visits. More accuracy and accessibility at our fingertips has made it more popular. The greater accuracy and need for a daily analysis rather than clinical visits at certain intervals has made it a better method to rely on.
Many diseases even don’t require the appliances to be worn but just needs a mobile app to detect their health conditions.
Current Scenario
These days the areas which widely uses this technology are–
1.Congestive Heart Failure
2.Hypertension
3.Diabetes
4.COPD
Above all Parkinson’s Disease attributes to the most successful area till date. This is due to the ability of it to easily measure and analyze the heart rate, function, physical activity and soon glucose levels round the clock.
The devices like glucose monitor and WristOx2 the pulse oximeter are best models that define how progressed the field has turned.
Challenges faced
Many corporate companies are just at the infant stage of this innovative development. More focus is required in its development and progress can only occur if work is done in the core bringing it to mainstream rather than as a side function.
The device size, weight, water resistance, durability, and comfort are to be essentially considered because every time the patient takes it off, there is a chance that they don’t put it back on. The processes for validating the digital biomarkers should be done with utmost care.
To conclude
The higher success rates of this technology are something to be noted. The progress of this technology which now provides a better choice of analysis for a multitude of diseases is appreciable. This area has a very high potential for development. In this era where technological innovations and growth is at its peak, it’s sure to see progress in this. Although it has it’s own disadvantages and limitations with time and technology all those can be overcome. And within the next decade, this will become the best invention ever.
Written by Ananya Chandra,
BDS II year,
Manav Rachna Dental College
Vivact - Talking Healthcare 