Analysis: We're happy to give up personal health information to our watches in exchange for feedback, but not so keen to share the same data more widely
If you're one of the many people who glance at their wrist dozens of times a day, it’s probably not just to check the time. Smartwatches have quietly become our daily health companions. They count our steps, track our heartbeats, monitor our sleep and, increasingly, nudge us to be healthier. But while we may be happy to let a watch monitor our every move, we’re far less sure about who else should see that data.
A recent study looked at how people use their smartwatches and how comfortable they feel sharing the health data these devices collect. The results shine a light on something we don’t often stop to think about: who do we really trust with our most personal health information?
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Why we keep using smartwatches
The research surveyed a diverse group of smartwatch users and found that people keep wearing them because the benefits feel real and immediate. A smartwatch can remind you to move after sitting too long, show you how your sleep is improving or even flag something unusual in your heart rate. These kinds of features have been shown to support behaviour change and healthier routines.
It’s not just about personal motivation either. Some people see their smartwatch as an extra set of eyes for their doctor. The idea that data could be shared with a GP or specialist to spot patterns, guide treatment, or catch issues earlier, adds real value. Research has already shown how wearable data can improve management of heart conditions such as atrial fibrillation.
Sharing health data: a matter of trust
But when it comes to deciding who else should get access to that data, things get complicated. The latest study found that people are most comfortable sharing information with healthcare providers, like doctors and nurses. That makes sense: these are the people we already trust with our health.
As smartwatches continue to become part of our everyday lives, finding the right balance between personal benefit and collective good will be crucial
Trust drops when the question shifts to public health authorities. While people may see the benefits, such as tracking flu outbreaks or spotting early warning signs during a pandemic, they also worry about how securely that data is stored and whether it might be misused. Prior studies during Covid-19 revealed similar hesitations about sharing data even for collective benefit.
When it comes to private companies, comfort levels plummet. Tech firms may make the devices and apps we use daily, but most of us remain uneasy about giving them direct access to sensitive health details. Concerns around advertising, profiling, or simply losing control of personal data loom large. These fears are not unfounded and researchers have highlighted frequent privacy gaps in commercial health apps.
The privacy paradox
This creates what researchers call a "privacy paradox". We’re happy to give up lots of personal information to our watches in exchange for feedback, motivation or peace of mind. But we hesitate when asked to share that same information more widely, even when it could benefit healthcare or society.
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From RTÉ Radio 1's Morning, Cian McCormack on people attending GP or medical clinics due to concerns over their heart rates when they are measured incorrectly by their smartwatch
Part of the answer lies in transparency. People want to know exactly what data is being collected, who will see it, and what will be done with it. Clear, trustworthy rules around data governance could go a long way towards reassuring users and encouraging more open sharing.
Why this matters now
Smartwatches are no longer gadgets for tech enthusiasts. They’re mainstream and tens of millions of people worldwide now wear them daily. In Ireland, where health services are under pressure and digital solutions are being explored, wearable devices could play an important role. Imagine being able to spot trends in heart health across thousands of people, or giving doctors access to real-time patient data outside the clinic.
But without public trust, those possibilities may never be realised. If people fear their data could end up in the wrong hands, they’ll simply say no. That’s why studies like this are so important: they tell us what people want, and what they don’t.
The road ahead
For healthcare systems, device makers and policymakers, the message is clear. To get the most out of wearable health technology, we need strong privacy protections, clear communication, and systems that put people in control of their own data.
Smartwatches may be small, but the questions they raise about trust, transparency and the future of healthcare are big. As these devices continue to become part of our everyday lives, finding the right balance between personal benefit and collective good will be crucial.
Until then, the watch on your wrist will keep nudging you to move more, sleep better, and breathe deeper. Just don’t be surprised if you find yourself wondering who else is paying attention.
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The views expressed here are those of the author and do not represent or reflect the views of RTÉ
