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Cite as: Archiv EuroMedica. 2025. 15; 3. DOI 10.35630/2025/15/3.303
,
Anna Tokarska2 , ,
Katarzyna Gawrońska4 , ,
Paweł Sosnowski2 , ,
Agnieszka Waszczuk7 , ,
Piotr Łapiński2 Aims: This review aims to analyze the impact of advancements in wearable technology and digital health solutions on health monitoring. The study focuses on how these innovations have improved the accuracy of health data collection, expanded access to medical monitoring, and strengthened patient engagement in self-care.
Methods: A comprehensive literature review was conducted using publicly available databases, including PubMed, NEJM and Google Scholar, using articles available in English. Studies focusing on wearable health technology, its applications in chronic disease management, and its integration into healthcare systems were analyzed.
Results: Wearable health technology has significantly enhanced real-time patient monitoring, enabling earlier detection of health conditions and more personalized treatment strategies. Devices such as smart watches, ECG monitors, and continuous glucose monitors have improved disease management and patient compliance. However, challenges related to data security, device interoperability, and patient adherences remain prevalent.
Conclusion: Wearable health technology is transforming healthcare by providing continuous, real-time health monitoring and facilitating early intervention. While its potential is vast, addressing challenges such as data privacy and integration with existing medical systems is crucial for maximizing its benefits. Wearable health technologies are increasingly integrated into medical practice, offering new opportunities for continuous patient monitoring, early disease detection, and personalized treatment.
Keywords: wearable technology, wearables, digital health, health sensors, biosensors
The integration of wearable technology and digital health solutions into healthcare systems represents one of the most transformative advancements in contemporary medicine. Wearable health technology encompasses a diverse array of devices, ranging from basic fitness trackers to sophisticated biosensors, all designed to continuously monitor an individual’s physiological parameters [1]. These devices facilitate the real-time collection of critical health data, including heart rate, glucose levels, physical activity, and other vital signs, thereby enabling a more proactive and personalized approach to healthcare management [1]. Wearable devices eliminate the need for manual health data collection by healthcare providers, streamlining workflows and reducing human error [2]. This continuous monitoring capability is particularly beneficial for individuals managing chronic conditions, allowing for timely interventions and adjustments to treatment plans based on real-time feedback [3]. Collected data from these wearables is typically transmitted to secure, centralized data repositories or cloud-based platforms, where advanced analytics can be applied to extract meaningful insights and facilitate clinical decision-making [3]. Furthermore, the ability to continuously monitor 'healthy' individuals offers significant advantages, enabling the prediction and early detection of health risks, and optimizing treatments when necessary [4].
In this review, we explore the impact of advancements in wearable technology and digital health solutions on health monitoring, with a particular focus on how these innovations have improved the accuracy of health data collection, expanded access to medical monitoring, and strengthened patient engagement in self-care. We provide an overview of the current state of wearable health technology, categorizing different types of devices, examining their applications and clinical impact across various healthcare settings, and highlighting the technological advancements that support their development. Additionally, we address the limitations and challenges associated with these technologies.
This article is based on a narrative review of the current literature related to wearable technologies in health monitoring. A structured search was conducted in PubMed, Scopus, and IEEE Xplore databases to identify relevant peer-reviewed articles published between January 2015 and April 2025. The search terms included combinations of keywords such as “wearable devices”, “remote patient monitoring”, “health sensors”, “biosensors”, “digital health”, and “physiological signal tracking”.
Inclusion criteria encompassed original research articles, clinical trials, technical evaluations, and systematic reviews focusing on wearable technologies used for medical monitoring, chronic disease management, or health behavior assessment. Publications not available in English, those without scientific evaluation (e.g., promotional materials, opinion pieces), and studies unrelated to biomedical or clinical applications were excluded.
This article represents a narrative synthesis and not a systematic review. A meta-analysis was not performed due to the high heterogeneity in study design, target populations, technological specifications, and outcome measures. As such, the strength of evidence and risk of bias were not quantitatively assessed. The goal of the review was to highlight technological advancements, usage scenarios, and emerging challenges rather than to draw conclusions about clinical efficacy.
Modern wearable biosensors have undergone significant advancements, leading to enhanced capabilities in continuous health monitoring [5]. Current sensors are designed to be smaller, more accurate, and energy-efficient, which makes them suitable for long-term use in everyday settings [5]. These sophisticated devices can monitor a wide range of physiological parameters, including motion, nutritional status, heart rate, blood sugar, cardiac disease status, and apnea during sleep [5,6]. By providing a non-invasive alternative to traditional monitoring techniques, wearable devices facilitate continuous data collection, offering the potential to enhance patient compliance and enable timely interventions based on real-time physiological feedback [2,5].
The public's growing health consciousness is leading to increased demand for better and more accessible medical services. Ubiquitous healthcare systems that integrate wearable technologies have the potential to improve patient well-being, manage chronic diseases, support independent living, and respond quickly to emergencies anywhere, anytime [7]. These solutions enable the elderly and patients in rehabilitation to receive quality medical services while minimizing the need for hospitalization and reducing medical costs. What's more, wearable technologies, an integral part of ubiquitous healthcare systems, will become even more integrated into users' daily lives in the future, becoming almost invisible. Their development and miniaturization will allow them to work seamlessly with other smart systems, providing even more accurate measurements and healthcare efficiency [8].
In view of the above, wearable technologies are one part of the future of medicine, enabling uninterrupted health monitoring, personalization of treatment and improvement of patients' quality of life. Their further development and integration with telemedicine systems can ease the burden on traditional health care and help make medical services more accessible to a wide audience.
Wearable devices come in a variety of forms, each tailored to different health applications. Smartwatches and fitness trackers are among the most commonly used, focusing on tracking physical activity, heart rate, sleep quality, and body temperature [9,10]. These devices are designed to encourage user engagement and increase daily physical activity.
Continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) are essential tools in diabetes management, offering real-time monitoring of glucose levels and generating alerts to prevent hypo- or hyperglycemia. Some advanced CGMs integrate directly with insulin pumps, creating automated closed-loop systems that deliver insulin based on sensor readings, mimicking a biological pancreas [1,11,12].
In cardiology, wearable ECG monitors provide valuable information about heart rhythms outside the clinical setting, improving arrhythmia detection and the reliability of monitoring systems such as ICU alarms [12]. These technologies are becoming increasingly integral to cardiovascular diagnostics.
One of the most important applications of wearable technologies is the monitoring of patients' motor activity, which is particularly important in the rehabilitation of people after strokes, with Parkinson's disease or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease [13]. Wearable sensors, such as accelerometers, gyroscopes and magnetometers, allow detailed analysis of movement patterns, which makes it possible to objectively assess the effectiveness of therapeutic interventions and tailor rehabilitation programs to the individual patient's needs [14]. In addition, the use of miniature sensors in prostheses and orthoses is opening up new possibilities for controlling movement and increasing mobility for people with limited mobility [15].
The rapid development of artificial intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things (IoT), combined with wearable technology, is leading to modern telemedicine systems. An example is the integration of wearable devices with data analytics systems, which allows for early detection of pathological changes, and thus better prevention and management of chronic diseases [16]. In particular, terahertz (THz) technologies combined with AI and IoT are enabling more precise medical imaging, with applications including cancer diagnosis, soft tissue imaging and monitoring of patients' physiological parameters [16].
In the context of chronic wound care, the development of smart dressings equipped with sensors allows continuous monitoring of the healing process and detection of biomarkers indicating infection or inflammation. Such solutions not only reduce the need for frequent medical visits, but also contribute to reducing hospitalization time and improving patients' quality of life [17].
Analyses of the use of wearable devices in healthcare indicate an increase in their adoption, especially after the COVID-19 pandemic. In 2022, as many as 36.36% of American adults reported using wearable devices for health monitoring, but actual sharing of collected data with physicians remains relatively low (26.5%). Barriers to adoption of this technology include privacy issues, limited digital competency of users, and lack of full integration of wearable systems with electronic medical records [18].
Wearable devices in the diagnosis, monitoring and treatment of depression represent an innovative tool to support psychiatry. The technology enables passive monitoring of patients' behavior and physiological parameters, providing more objective data than traditional self-reporting methods. Longitudinal measurements from wearable devices, combined with contextual information from smartphones, can significantly expand clinical decision-making and facilitate the personalization of treatment for patients suffering from major depressive disorder. An example of a practical application of this technology is patient Joe's interaction with a psychiatrist, during which the device showed irregular sleep patterns, despite the patient's claimed improvement in his mood. Such a situation demonstrates how data from devices can reveal aspects of a patient's health that might be missed in classic clinical assessments. The benefits of using wearable devices include increased frequency; data on activity, sleep rhythms and other parameters are collected continuously, without the need for active patient involvement. Access to the data before the visit allows the doctor to use his time more efficiently, focusing on the patient's problems. Algorithms can analyze raw measurements and generate interpretable clinical indicators and can provide data on a patient's activity and sleep patterns, which can help diagnose and adjust therapy [19].
Of particular importance are wearable biosensors that enable continuous analysis of biomarkers such as blood pressure, temperature, oxygen levels, pH, lactate, glucose or interleukin-6 (IL-6), which allows rapid detection of infection and assessment of tissue regeneration [20,21]. Modern sensor platforms include epidermal biosensors, micro-needle electrodes and microfluidic systems. Epidermal electronic tattoos enable non-invasive monitoring of glucose, lactate and wound temperature, while micro-needle electrodes allow more accurate analysis of interstitial fluids without the need for blood draws [22]. Microfluidics, in turn, support real-time biochemical diagnostics by analyzing pH, lactate, and levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines [21].
In cardiology, wearable devices enable detection of arrhythmias, assessment of heart rate and monitoring of patients with heart failure by analyzing chest impedance, blood pressure and physical activity [12,23]. In respiratory diseases, pulse oximeters and smart inhalers improve adherence to therapy and enable early detection of hypoxemia [12]. In neurology, on the other hand, wearable motion sensors allow monitoring the progression of Parkinson's disease and detecting epileptic seizures [24]. Integration of Digital Health Technologies (DHTs) with telemedicine enables personalization of therapy, reduction of hospitalizations and elimination of barriers to healthcare access. Supported by artificial intelligence algorithms, analysis of data from devices allows prediction of chronic disease exacerbations and implementation of early therapeutic intervention. Wearable technologies are a significant part of the transformation of medicine toward remote and personalized care, but their effectiveness requires further clinical trials and optimization of reimbursement models [23,25,26].
Epilepsy is another area where wearable technologies are significantly improving patients' quality of life. Smart wristbands and skin sensors can detect characteristic body movements and changes in physiological parameters that suggest an impending seizure. These systems can automatically notify caregivers or medical personnel, allowing for faster intervention and reducing the risk of serious complications. In addition, real-time analysis of seizure patterns can help optimize drug treatment [27].
Table 1. Comparative Overview of Wearable Device Applications in Major Clinical Domains
| Clinical Domain | Wearable Devices Used | Main Parameters Monitored | Benefits | Limitations |
| Cardiology | Smartwatches, ECG patches | HR, ECG, BP | Arrhythmia detection, early diagnostics | Signal noise, data overload |
| Diabetes Management | Continuous glucose monitors | Blood glucose | Real-time monitoring, insulin automation | Cost, calibration needs |
| Neurology | Motion sensors, EEG headbands | Seizures, motion patterns | Seizure prediction, motor tracking | Comfort, data privacy |
| Pulmonology | Pulse oximeters, smart inhalers | SpO₂, inhalation frequency | Better therapy adherence, early alerts | Limited integration with EMR |
| Mental Health | Smartbands, wearable EEG | Sleep, HRV, physical activity | Passive monitoring, therapy adjustment | Interpretation subjectivity |
| Rehabilitation | Accelerometers, gyroscopes | Gait, limb movement | Objective therapy assessment | Need for individual calibration |
Note: HR – heart rate, BP – blood pressure, SpO₂ – blood oxygen saturation, HRV – heart rate variability.
Over the past decade, numerous studies have been conducted on the use of wearable devices in assisted living environments, health care (CH), and wellness and fitness applications, identifying both their benefits and challenges [28].
Thanks to the development of data analysis algorithms and artificial intelligence, it is possible to more accurately predict the risk of health episodes such as hypoglycemia or sudden deterioration of cardiovascular function. Modern technologies are no longer limited to monitoring physical activity, but also to analyzing ECGs, measuring stress levels, and monitoring sleep [1].
A growing number of devices enable wireless data transmission to patients' electronic health records, which supports doctors in clinical decision-making. Examples of telemonitoring applications show that implementing wearable technologies can significantly reduce the number of readmissions of patients with chronic heart failure [29,30].
The development of wearable technologies is based on advances in sensing, processing, communication and data protection. Today, wearable devices use advanced sensors to monitor physiological parameters, allowing for more effective management of chronic diseases [31].
The development of next-generation biosensors is also an important aspect. The use of nanotechnology and microfluidics enables precise, non-invasive measurements of health parameters such as blood glucose levels and blood pressure. Advances in microelectronics, biocompatible materials and embedded systems are contributing to the miniaturization of devices and improving their user experience [22].
With the growing number of wearable devices come challenges related to data privacy and security. The information collected, which includes sensitive health data, must be adequately protected from unauthorized access and use. Therefore, it is becoming very important to implement data encryption, regulatory compliance and mechanisms that allow patients to control their data [32].
Wearable technologies, have become an integral part of modern health systems, allowing uninterrupted monitoring of physiological parameters and rapid response to emergency situations. Integrating these technologies with telemedicine systems can contribute significantly to reducing hospitalizations and increasing accessibility to healthcare for patients with chronic diseases. Findings indicate that wearable technologies can play a significant role in monitoring patients with cardiovascular, neurological or mental illnesses.
However, the effectiveness of these systems depends on their integration into the medical infrastructure and the degree of acceptance by medical personnel and patients. As studies have shown, despite the growing popularity of wearable devices, the degree of their use in clinical practice is still limited [18]. In particular, the low frequency of sharing data with doctors remains a problem, which may be due to privacy concerns and lack of full integration with medical record systems.
The results analyzed underscore that wearable technologies can be an important tool in monitoring and managing chronic diseases such as diabetes, heart failure and Parkinson's disease. Continuous monitoring of physiological parameters, such as blood sugar, blood pressure or physical activity, can lead to early identification of patient deterioration and enable faster intervention [24,25]. Of particular interest is the use of biosensors that enable real-time analysis of biomarkers, which could revolutionize approaches to the prevention and treatment of chronic diseases.
However, the precision of measurements and the need for clinical validation of the solutions used remains a challenge. Although wearable monitoring devices are becoming more advanced, their data can be susceptible to interference from patient movement, external conditions or algorithmic errors. Therefore, clinical trials are needed to confirm the reliability of the results obtained [23].
The findings also indicate that the development of wearable technologies is moving toward increasing miniaturization, improved precision of measurements, and integration with artificial intelligence systems. AI algorithms can play a role in analyzing collected data, enabling more accurate health risk prediction and personalization of therapy [1]. The use of IoT technologies and telemonitoring can also help reduce hospitalizations and increase the efficiency of health system management [29].
However, one major challenge remains the privacy and security of patient data. Wearable technologies collect vast amounts of data, which can be vulnerable to cyberattacks and unauthorized access. Implementing effective encryption mechanisms, regulatory compliance, and ensuring that patients are in control of their data is becoming an aspect of the technology's continued development [26,32]. In addition, it is necessary to take into account differences in patients' levels of digital competence, which may affect their ability to use wearable technology in their daily healthcare.
Despite the growing body of literature on wearable technologies, much of the current research remains descriptive, lacking critical comparisons between device categories, platforms, or clinical outcomes. To enhance the scientific value of such reviews, future analyses should systematically compare the accuracy, usability, and clinical integration of different wearable systems. For instance, randomized controlled studies or real-world comparative data between smartwatches, continuous glucose monitors, and wearable ECGs would allow for evidence-based selection of devices for specific patient populations. Highlighting these areas would better inform clinicians, researchers, and policymakers on where investment and regulatory focus are most urgently needed.
Analysis of the data shows the great potential of wearable technologies in healthcare, especially in monitoring patients with chronic diseases and in telemedicine systems. However, their successful implementation requires further clinical trials, improved integration with health systems and resolution of data privacy issues. In the future, we can expect further miniaturization of the devices, improvements in their precision, and more advanced data analysis based on artificial intelligence, which could open up new possibilities in diagnostics and therapy.
Table 2. Emerging Technologies in Wearable Health Monitoring: Functional Features and Development Trends
| Technology Area | Key Innovations | Expected Benefits | Challenges and Limitations |
| Epidermal Sensors | Electronic tattoos, flexible patches | Painless biomarker tracking, high comfort | Durability, calibration |
| Microneedle Sensors | Interstitial fluid analysis | Minimally invasive sampling | Cost, mass production |
| AI Integration | Predictive analytics, pattern recognition | Early detection, decision support | Algorithm bias, data labeling |
| IoT and Connectivity | Wireless syncing with EMRs | Remote monitoring, data consolidation | Security, interoperability |
| Data Security Protocols | Blockchain, encryption | Patient control, confidentiality | Implementation complexity |
This review has several limitations. Firstly, the methodology lacks a clearly defined timeframe for literature selection and does not include standardized quality assessment or meta-analysis. The aim was to provide a broad overview of current trends in wearable health technology, rather than to conduct a quantitative evaluation of effectiveness. Secondly, the review does not differentiate between types of studies (e.g., preclinical, clinical, or observational), which limits the ability to assess the strength of the evidence. Future reviews could benefit from more rigorous methodology and data visualization tools.
Analysis of research findings on wearable technologies indicates their significant potential to transform healthcare, particularly in the context of patient monitoring, diagnosis and chronic disease management. These devices can support personalization of therapy, reduction of hospitalizations and improvement of patients' quality of life through constant access to critical health information. The use of artificial intelligence and data analytics enables not only ongoing health monitoring, but also the prediction of health episodes and optimization of therapy.
However, successful implementation of these technologies requires further clinical trials to confirm their reliability and accuracy of measurements. It is also important to integrate the devices with electronic medical record systems and ensure adequate privacy and data security. Today's challenges also include the need to increase acceptance among patients and medical staff, which can be achieved through better digital education and adapting the technology to the real needs of users. The scientific utility of this literature review lies in identifying both the benefits and limitations of wearable technologies in the medical context. This research provides important insights into future directions and necessary system changes that can influence more effective use of these technologies in clinical practice. With further research and technological advances, it will be possible to increase their effectiveness and broadly implement them in everyday healthcare, which could lead to more accessible, effective and personalized patient care.
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