Hongkongers are developing the habit of using technology to manage their health with around 30 percent currently using smart wearable devices, according to a survey by the Hong Kong Productivity Council and Prudential Hong Kong.
The survey was undertaken from December 2019 to January 2020, with 1,500 Hong Kong citizens aged between 20 and 54 being interviewed.
The latest Prudential Hong Kong Smart Health Action Index was at 49.8 out of 100 points, representing a basic level of application of technology in health management.
While the idea of using technology to manage people's health is starting to take root, there is still room to improve practical applications and individuals' health habits, HKPC said.
Overall, 29 percent of respondents have tried or are currently using smart wearables, with another 40 percent indicating they may use smart wearables in the future and the rest having no plan at all. The top three barriers for not adopting smart wearable devices were attributed to concerns on data accuracy, price, and privacy.
"The growing public acceptance of using technology for health management will bring many business opportunities in the smart health device market," said Edmond Lai, chief digital officer of HKPC. "Yet, product manufacturers need to keep advancing the technology regarding the devices' data accuracy and security so that users can monitor their own physical condition, detect any abnormalities, and seek medical advice early in a secure manner."
Edmond Lai and Prudential chief customer and marketing officer Priscilla Ng reveal the results of the inaugural survey. SING TAO
