Fitbit and Quest Diagnostics Collaborate on Metabolic Health Study

Krissy Vann | Host, All Things Fitness and Wellness

In a move towards enhancing metabolic health management, Fitbit has joined forces with Quest Diagnostics, a global leader in diagnostic information services. This collaboration aims to explore the potential of wearable technology in improving metabolic health, which is crucial in preventing various diseases, including diabetes and heart disease.

The pilot study, named Wearables for Metabolic Health (WEAR-ME), intends to combine behavioral and biometric data from Fitbit devices with health insights derived from Quest Diagnostics' laboratory tests. This approach seeks to uncover new methods for analyzing data to enhance the assessment and management of metabolic health. The primary objective is to use this combined data to aid in disease prevention and improve health outcomes.

Central to the study is the evaluation of the impact of wearable technology on user behavior, specifically how these behaviors are reflected in objective laboratory test results. Previous data has indicated that wearables can positively influence modifiable behaviors such as diet, exercise, and sleep. However, there is less research available on the impact of these behaviors on health outcomes measured by objective criteria.

Richard Adams, Vice President and General Manager of Consumer-Initiated Testing at Quest, emphasized the study's alignment with Quest's goal of empowering people to manage their health. He stated, "This study... will harness laboratory testing to better understand the type of information that motivates people to make healthy choices that ultimately improve their health." Quest's involvement includes providing more than 75 lab tests with physician oversight through their consumer-initiated testing platform at questhealth.com.

The study, which has received IRB approval, will invite around 1,500 existing Fitbit users to participate. These participants will consent to share three months of Fitbit data and will have the opportunity to undergo laboratory testing at no cost. This testing will include a panel of blood tests designed to assess metabolic health, including measures like blood sugar, cholesterol, and triglycerides. Enrollment for the study will be facilitated through the Google Health Studies App, and participants will have direct access to their lab test results through this app and Quest's MyQuest mobile app.

The significance of the study is underlined by the high prevalence of poor metabolic health, a major risk factor for chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and stroke. Metabolic health is assessed using benchmarks including blood sugar, cholesterol, and triglycerides levels. Addressing these factors through physical activity, a healthful diet, and quality sleep can significantly reduce the risk of developing these conditions.

Dr. Javier L. Prieto, Principal Investigator and Senior Staff Research Scientist at Google, remarked on the study's importance: "Improving metabolic health is essential to prolong the time we stay healthy and disease-free... We think this study will help us uncover how biometrics measured by wearables can help you understand your metabolic health."

The WEAR-ME pilot study, expected to conclude in 2024, represents a pivotal step in understanding how wearable devices can enhance metabolic health and aid in managing chronic diseases more effectively.

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