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Continuously monitoring the human machine? – A cross-sectional study to assess the acceptance of wearables in Germany

M. Hindelang, Hannah Wecker, T. Biedermann, A. Zink

Health Informatics Journal, 2024

550 participants · 8 citations

Abstract

Background: Wearables have the potential to transform healthcare by enabling early detection and monitoring of chronic diseases. This study aimed to assess wearables’ acceptance, usage, and reasons for non-use. Methods: Anonymous questionnaires were used to collect data in Germany on wearable ownership, usage behaviour, acceptance of health monitoring, and willingness to share data. Results: Out of 643 respondents, 550 participants provided wearable acceptance data. The average age was 36.6 years, with 51.3% female and 39.6% residing in rural areas. Overall, 33.8% reported wearing a wearable, primarily smartwatches or fitness wristbands. Men (63.3%) and women (57.8%) expressed willingness to wear a sensor for health monitoring, and 61.5% were open to sharing data with healthcare providers. Concerns included data security, privacy, and perceived lack of need. Conclusion: The study highlights the acceptance and potential of wearables, particularly for health monitoring and data sharing with healthcare providers. Addressing data security and privacy concerns could enhance the adoption of innovative wearables, such as implants, for early detection and monitoring of chronic diseases.

How strong is the evidence?

Evidence Hub reads this as a cross-sectional, done in people. Its evidence level is 4 of 5 (Low · observational). Observational designs can show an association but not prove cause. Reported size: 550 participants or records.

How the five levels of evidence work. The level is assigned automatically from the abstract and can be wrong, so check the paper.

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