Typically, the information that is generated from your body, or information about you or your healthcare is stored with other parties that are collecting the information.
For example, if you use a fitness or a wearable tracker, this data is stored within the databases of that company. This usually happens through the wearable connecting through its bluetooth to another bluetooth device (such as your phone), and transmitting the data via an app on your phone that holds the data to the company the next time you login to the internet.
This is good for keeping track of your data, and for being able to access it but there are important considerations that can arise. This includes:
- Privacy – companies have vague terms outlined in their privacy policies which the majority of consumers do not read. This can make it difficult to understand what a company is actually doing with your data. Take for example the sale of consumer genomic data by 23andMe to GSK for 300 million dollars! Companies are starting to make a profit from your data, without you truly consenting or being aware.
- Security – increasing threats from outside hackers are making it harder than ever to keep your data safe. Although some data may seem benign (such as your age or sex), companies can use this data to target you, or at worst, steal your data. It’s important that your data should be secure.
- Ethical considerations – your data should be your own – not another company’s! This allows you to make decisions about if you would like to share this for research or you would like to keep your information private. When you are in the driver’s seat you have a clear understanding of when and how your data is being used.
Our products are geared towards ensuring that you are able to easily measure and monitor your vital signs and other health data, as well as gain actionable and important insights.
We never share your data without your express consent, and you decide what to do with your data.