YouGov finds only half of Brits understand what wearables actually measure — showing lack of understanding about health (2,000 respondents)

New online YouGov data released by mymonX – a non-invasive health and wellness device that analyses vitals to empower proactive health control, underpinned by AI – found that ONLY around half (54%) of Brits would understand all the metrics on a wearable device.

Whilst there has been a real boom in wearable devices over the past 6 years, the data highlights low overall levels of confidence amongst the general population in understanding what health metrics such as ‘ECG’, ‘heart rate’, and ‘glucose’ mean on these devices, and how they influence adults’ overall health.

The research found potentially high levels of confidence with Millennials and lower levels of confidence with Gen X and Baby Boomers:
25-34 year olds: 60% are confident they would understand what the metrics mean
35–44 year olds: 61% are confident
Despite not being ‘digital natives’, this age group would best understand the metrics from smart devices
45-54 year olds: 53% are confident
55+ year olds: 49% are confident
The lowest level of confidence out of all age groups

Understanding amongst the general population generally declines as age increases. This is interesting as health risks, such as developing type 2 diabetes, is more likely to affect adults aged 45 or older and are typically due to a combination of factors including obesity, sedentary lifestyle, and poor diet.

Sylvia Smit, Founder and CEO of mymonX, comments: “Worryingly, only half of Brits (54%) are confident about what wearables can tell them. This is particularly crucial for the least confident age bracket, 55+, as age increases the risk factor for health conditions.

“It’s good to know what your metrics are – but that’s only the first baby step. You need to understand what these metrics mean, what your ‘normal’ is and what you can do to get in control of your health. It’s important to monitor vitals and know what the metrics mean to make well-informed actionable lifestyle adjustments.

“That’s why we’ve created our smartwatch. It’s the first of its kind to non-invasively and continuously measure glucose levels, heart rate, blood pressure, ECG, body temperature and more. Our medical professionals consistently review and share personalised reports of your health so you can proactively understand your body’s metrics and make healthier life choices.

“It’s time to put the power back in people’s hands and on their wrists.”