The future of wearable health technology: From monitoring to preventive healthcare

Chekwube Martin Obianyo 1, *, Victor Chiedozie Ezeamii 1, Benjamin Idoko 2, Tomilola Adeyinka 3, Ejembi Victor Ejembi 4, Joy Ene Idoko 5 Lilian Okwuonu Obioma 6 and Ogochukwu Judith Ugwu 7

1 Jiann-Ping Hsu College of Public Health, Georgia Southern University, USA.
2 Department of Nursing, University of Sunderland United Kingdom.
3 Cygnet Wallace Hospital University of Sunderland.
4 Department of Radiology, University College Hospital, Ibadan.
5 Department of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Technology, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria.
6 Nursing department Wayne County Community College District Detroit Michigan.
7 Department of Nursing, Ebonyi State University, Abakaliki Nigeria.
 
Review
World Journal of Biology Pharmacy and Health Sciences, 2024, 20(01), 036–055.
Article DOI: 10.30574/wjbphs.2024.20.1.0709
Publication history: 
Received on 19 August 2024; revised on 28 September 2024; accepted on 30 September 2024
 
Abstract: 
Wearable health technology has undergone rapid development, evolving from simple fitness trackers to sophisticated medical devices that provide real-time monitoring and data collection. As these technologies become increasingly integrated into healthcare systems, their potential to shift from reactive treatment to proactive preventive care is gaining attention. This review paper explores the current state of wearable health devices, including the key technologies that enable monitoring and data analysis, and discusses the latest advancements such as AI integration, smart fabrics, and implantable wearables. The paper also delves into the significant role these technologies play in preventive healthcare by enabling continuous monitoring, early disease detection, and personalized health interventions. Furthermore, it addresses the challenges facing wearables, including issues of data accuracy, privacy, and user compliance. Finally, the paper explores future directions and ethical considerations, emphasizing the potential for wearables to reshape healthcare by promoting more accessible, equitable, and preventive healthcare solutions.
 
Keywords: 
Wearable health technology; Preventive healthcare; Real-time monitoring; Artificial intelligence; Chronic disease management; Biosensors; Personalized healthcare; Smart fabrics; Continuous monitoring; Healthcare data privacy; Predictive analytics; Telemedicine integration
 
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