MONITORING HEALTH: SENSORS IN SMARTPHONES

Abstract

Over the last two decades, thanks to major developments in medical science and technology, medication, and extensive understanding of diet, education, and personal and environmental health, we have seen a substantial rise in lifespan. Additionally, the elderly population is projected to grow steadily in the future years in many parts. In terms of costs correlated with their health care and well-being, an increasingly growing ageing population is projected to adversely impact the socio-economic structures of many nations. Furthermore, illnesses linked to the digestive system, the eye, immune system, skin and mental wellbeing are internationally common. However, by constant observation, most of these diseases can be prevented and/or adequately handled. Affordable, non-invasive and easy-to-use healthcare technologies are essential in order to allow ongoing patient surveillance and to satisfy rising healthcare needs. Combined with embedded sensors and new communication technologies, the ever-increasing penetration of smartphones makes it an appealing technology to allow continuous and remote tracking of the safety and well-being of a person with minimal extra costs. In this article, we present a thorough overview of state-of-the-art studies and advancements in healthcare technology focused on mobile sensors. A debate on regulatory strategies for medical devices and their consequences in smartphone-based healthcare systems is discussed. Finally, it addresses certain potential research insights and questions around smartphone-based healthcare services.