JMIR Publications

ABSTRACT

Traditional public health surveillance efforts are generally based on self-reported data. Well-validated, these methods may nevertheless be subjected to limitations such as biases, delays, and costs/logistical challenges. An alternative is the use of smart technologies (e.g., smartphones and smartwatches) to complement self-report indicators. Having embedded sensors that provide zero-effort, passive and continuous monitoring of health variables, these devices generate data that could be leveraged for cases in which the data is related to the same self-report metric of interest. However, some challenges must be considered when discussing the use of mobile health technologies for public health to ensure digital health equity, privacy and best practices. This paper provides an overview of research involving mobile data for public health, including a mapping of variables currently collected by public health surveys that could be complemented with self-report, challenges to technology adoption and considerations on digital health equity – with a specific focus on the Canadian context. Population characteristics from major smart technology brands – a) Apple, b) Fitbit, and c) Samsung – and demographic barriers to the use of technology are provided. We conclude with public health implications and present our view that public health agencies and researchers should leverage mobile health data while being mindful of current barriers and limitations to device use and access. In this manner, data ecosystems that leverage personal smart devices for public health can be put in place as appropriate, as we move towards a future in which barriers to technology adoption are decreasing.