Wearable Technology in Gastroenterology: Current Applications and Future Directions

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Digital Health
• Wearable Technology

Background:

• Wearable technology has advanced healthcare, but reviews often focus on cardiovascular health.
• Gastroenterology is exploring wearable devices and smartphone apps for patient monitoring.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the role of wearable technology in managing gastrointestinal disorders.
• Focus on remote patient monitoring and smartphone application use.

Main Methods:

• Searched for studies on wearable technology in gastroenterology (2018 onwards).
• Included terms like 'wearable device', 'smartphone', 'biosensor', 'gastrointestinal disorders'.
• Included RCTs, prospective, and feasibility studies; excluded pediatrics.

Main Results:

• Wearable devices and digital health management effectively monitor symptoms and reduce hospitalizations.
• Benefits observed in inflammatory bowel diseases, motility disorders, and liver diseases.

Conclusions:

• Remote monitoring via wearables and apps can reduce hospitalizations and empower patients.
• Challenges include data security, accuracy, and EMR integration.