Apple has announced the launch of its latest research initiative, the Apple Health Study, aimed at further insight into how technology can contribute to improving both physical and mental health. Led in collaboration with Brigham and Women's Hospital, a leading research institution and a large educational branch of the Harvard Medical School, the study aims to explore the mutual connections between different aspects of health.
Available via the research app, the study will investigate how the iPhone, Apple Watch, AirPods and other technology can help in monitoring and predicting changes in well-being. By using the widespread use of Apple devices, it is claimed that the study tackles traditional barriers in medical research, such as the recruitment of participants and limitations of data collection.
Dr. Calum Macrae, a cardiologist and professor of medicine at the Harvard Medical School, expressed enthusiasm for the project. “We have only just started scratching the surface of how technology can improve our understanding of human health,” he said. “We are pleased to be part of the Apple Health study, because it will continue to explore connections in various health areas with the help of technology that so many people entail every day.”
This new longitudinal, virtual study will analyze a wide range of health factors, including cardiovascular health, mental well -being, sleep, metabolic health, mobility, cognition, respiratory function and more. The research builds on earlier studies led by Apple, such as the Apple Women's Health Study, the Apple Hearing Study and the Apple Heart and Movement Study, who jointly registered more than 350,000 participants in the United States.
Dr. Sumbul Desai, vice -president of Apple's health, emphasized the importance of research into product innovation. “The valuable insights we have gained since the launch of the research -app has enabled us to bring innovative new tools to our users, including the Vitals -app on Apple Watch and Walking Steadiness on iPhone,” she said. “We are very happy to introduce the Apple Health study, which will accelerate our understanding of health and technology throughout the human body, both physically and mentally.”
Participation in the study is voluntary and open to US residents who meet the criteria of suitability and complete the informed permission process. Via the research app, participants can select which data they want to share and they can withdraw at any time. Apple has confirmed that it will not have access to identifying information provided via the app, whereby the privacy and security of users is guaranteed.
