Brits ignoring wearable tech health alerts – and it could be dangerous

Brits ignoring wearable tech health alerts – and it could be dangerous UK adults now track their health using wearable tech such as smartwatches and fitness trackers — but many admit they have no idea what the data means, with some ignoring health alerts entirely. Nearly half of adults are tracking their health through wearable tech - but a quarter confess they haven't got a clue what they're looking for. A study of 2,000 adults revealed 57% now wear some form of tech which monitors their heart rate, steps, sleep and even blood pressure. Nearly half (46%) actively track their health and wellbeing via their watch, phone or smart ring. Yet, 23% of those admit they don't understand what most of the information is telling them, with 60% having previously looked at data on their device without knowing what it means. Meanwhile, 24% have completely ignored health alerts from their device, with heart rate (40%), activity levels (35%), and stress (32%) warnings the most frequently overlooked. The study was commissioned by Cromwell Hospital, which offers cardiology services alongside Bupa’s other hospitals, King Edward VII’s Hospital and New Victoria Hospital. Dr Neil Srinivasan, consultant cardiologist at Cromwell Hospital, said: "Wearable technology has changed the way people monitor their health. From steps to sleep and heart rate, we now have a wealth of data at our fingertips, people need to know what they are looking out for. "Worryingly, this lack of understanding is causing some to ignore alerts and signals which could indicate a serious health issue, particularly ones that are linked to our hearts. "These alerts should not be ignored and should be checked out by a healthcare professional, who will be able to tell you what it means and if more investigations need to happen. "We know that early diagnosis can be lifesaving. Using all the tools at our disposal, including wearable technology and preventative screenings, is key to maintaining good health particularly for your heart." The study also revealed that steps taken (67%), heart rate (52%) and calories burned (46%) are the most frequently monitored health metrics via wearable technology. However, only 17% can interpret the data from their device that may be linked to irregular heart rhythms, and just 21% feel confident in understanding the information relating to their respiratory rate. When faced with confusing readings from their wearable tech, 61% turn to the internet to find out what it means, while 30% simply disregard it. Worryingly, one in four (26%) admitted that a lack of understanding left them anxious without good reason. The research, conducted through OnePoll, discovered that 28% of those who monitor their health via wearable tech have sought medical advice following an alert or notification related to their wellbeing. Of those who did get checked out, 58% found it turned out to be a minor issue, yet 21% said it proved to be an indicator of a more serious health concern. More than a third (35%) have also shared data from their wearable tech device when consulting a medical professional, with 26% of those believing it resulted in a quicker or more straightforward diagnosis. As technology continues to open up new ways of monitoring our health, wearable data is increasingly being supported by additional tools that can help people identify the risks of serious illnesses years before any symptoms emerge. From 1 September 2026, Bupa will launch a new first-to-market genomics prevention-focused pathway for cardiovascular disease. It will use DNA insights to pinpoint individuals at heightened risk and connect them with preventive services included within their health cover, such as Bupa's Weight Management Plan, to reduce their chances of developing cardiovascular disease in the future. Dr Srinivasan added: "Technology is allowing us to get far more information about our bodies than ever before, information that previously would only be available from a doctor. "Understanding the data to spot any early warning signs of health concerns that might not be quite as they should be, and get treatment faster, especially when it comes to our heart health. ". TOP 20 ASPECTS OF HEALTH TRACKED VIA WEARABLE TECH: - Steps taken - Heart rate (resting, average and active) - Calories burned - Sleep duration - Distance travelled - Active minutes - Sleep quality and efficiency - Heart rate variability (HRV) - Blood pressure - Sleep stages (light, deep and REM sleep) - Stress levels - Blood oxygen saturation (SpO2) - Respiratory rate (breaths per minute) - Recovery status after exercise - Sleep debt and recovery scores - Hydration levels - Irregular heart rhythms (e.g. possible atrial fibrillation) - Relaxation and mindfulness tracking - Menstrual cycle/ fertility levels - Breathing disturbances during sleep