Empowering Heart Health Monitoring with Smart Devices
Advancements in health technology now make it easier than ever to monitor heart health using devices like smartwatches, fitness apps, and blood pressure monitors. However, a recent survey by The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center highlights a critical gap: while many Americans actively use these devices, only a small fraction share the data with their healthcare providers.
Survey Findings
A national survey of 1,008 Americans revealed that nearly two-thirds of respondents use devices to monitor their heart health regularly. The most popular tools include:
- Smartwatches (32%)
- Portable blood pressure monitors (31%)
- Fitness apps (19%)
- Wearable fitness trackers (13%)
Despite this widespread use, only 25% of users discuss the data collected by these devices with their doctors.
Why Sharing Data Matters
Dr. Laxmi Mehta, Director of Preventative Cardiology and Women’s Cardiovascular Health at Ohio State Wexner Medical Center, emphasizes the value of these devices for early detection of health issues. For instance:
- Tracking blood pressure: Identifying trends in blood pressure increases can prompt timely discussions with doctors.
- Monitoring heart rhythms: Devices can detect irregularities like atrial fibrillation earlier than routine checkups.
Real-Life Impact
Patients like 78-year-old Sue VanWassenhove have seen the benefits of smart device monitoring. After noticing a pattern of heart rate drops on her smartwatch, VanWassenhove consulted with Dr. Mehta, who helped her utilize her smartwatch’s EKG feature to record and share heart data directly through her medical chart.
"Having a smartwatch is empowering," VanWassenhove says. "I can actively monitor my health and share concerns with my doctor, ensuring better care."
Heart Health Recommendations
For maintaining a healthy heart, the American Heart Association suggests:
- Exercise guidelines: 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity or 75 minutes of vigorous activity weekly.
- Target heart rates:
- Calculate maximum heart rate: 220 minus your age.
- Aim for 50–75% of this number during moderate exercise and 70–85% for vigorous activity.
The Role of Healthcare Collaboration
Self-monitoring devices empower patients, but action is key. Regularly discussing heart health data with your doctor enables accurate diagnoses and effective treatment plans. As technology continues to advance, bridging the gap between self-monitoring and professional healthcare is essential for optimal outcomes.
Survey Methodology
This study was conducted by SSRS from December 16–18, 2024, with a nationally representative sample of 1,008 U.S. adults. Data was collected online (n=978) and via phone (n=30), with a margin of error of ±3.6 percentage points at a 95% confidence level.
Reference
Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center. "While most Americans use a device to monitor their heart, few share that data with their doctor." ScienceDaily. ScienceDaily, 22 January 2025. <www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/01/250122131254.htm>.
