A recent study from Yale reveals that while many U.S. adults at risk for heart disease use smart devices like smartphones and tablets to monitor their health, those at the highest risk tend to avoid this technology.
The study delved into the disparities in tech adoption and looked for ways to improve heart health by leveraging these devices.
The team found Out of the U.S. adults at risk for heart disease, 40% utilize smart devices for health tracking.
However, the individuals most at risk for heart issues are less inclined to utilize technology for their health.
Earlier research indicated that under 25% of U.S. adults at risk for heart problems use wearable devices, such as smartwatches.
The research incorporated data from over 16,000 participants in the National Cancer Institute’s Health Information National Trends Survey between 2017 and 2020. Over 10,000 of these participants had heart disease or were at risk.
Younger individuals, women, and Black adults with better education or higher incomes are more inclined to use smart devices for health goals.
Conversely, older individuals and men, who have a higher risk for heart disease, are less likely to utilize or even own these devices.
Those with a lower education level or income also tend to avoid smart devices, which could worsen already existing health disparities.
Experts Weigh In
Dr. Arya Aminorroaya, from Yale School of Medicine, emphasized the trend of younger and more affluent individuals using technology to better their health.
Dr. Lovedeep Dhingra, also from Yale, pointed out the untapped potential of smart devices for health, especially among high-risk groups.
Dr. Rohan Khera, who headed the study, stressed the need for future strategies.
He suggested that figuring out what would motivate older and low-income individuals to utilize technology for better heart health outcomes is essential. The question remains: Is broader technology adoption the key to better heart health?
In summary, while technology has provided us with tools to monitor and improve health, there’s a significant gap in its adoption, particularly among those who could benefit most.
This presents a challenge for healthcare professionals and policymakers alike.
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The study was published in JACC: Advances.
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