Praveen Veerabhadrappa
Penn State University,
United States of America
Abstract Title: Tracking the truth: Evaluating the accuracy of wearable fitness technology
Biography:
Dr. Praveen Veerabhadrappa is passionate about research, innovation and inspiring the next generation of leaders (students) to further scientific research. Dr. Veerabhadrappa considers his most important work to be on the long term effects of exercise training on the cardio-metabolic risk factors, prevalence of masked hypertension and blood pressure variability, which has earned international recognition. Currently, his research focuses on incorporating wearable technology to enhance physical activity and improve health. Dr. Veerabhadrappa’s research group studies the cardio-metabolic effects of sedentary behavior using novel devices such as Actigraph, Fitbit, Vibralite and Apple Watch. His research students have presented their research at local, regional and national professional conferences. Dr. Veerabhadrappa is also recognized internationally with many awards. He has published 35 manuscripts and more than 60 abstracts in peer-reviewed journals. He serves on the editorial board and as a peer-reviewer for many high-impact journals in science and medicine, and is the founding member of the New Investigator Network of The International Society of Hypertension. Dr. Veerabhadrappa has organized and moderated many national and international symposia, liaising with the American Heart Association and the European Society of Hypertension.
Research Interest:
Activity trackers, often referred to as fitness trackers or wearable health devices, have transformed how individuals monitor their physical activity and overall well-being. Devices from leading brands such as Fitbit, Apple Watch, and Garmin are equipped with sensors that track a range of health metrics—including steps taken, heart rate, calories burned, sleep patterns, and even blood oxygen levels. These tools offer an accessible and interactive way for the general public to stay active and improve their health. Their value, however, is even greater for individuals managing chronic health conditions. Chronic illnesses—such as diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and arthritis—require ongoing monitoring and self-care to prevent complications and support a better quality of life. In this context, activity trackers can serve as valuable allies by delivering real-time insights and long-term trends in health-related behaviors. This data empowers users to make informed choices about their lifestyles and medical treatments. One of the key advantages of these devices is their ability to monitor daily physical activity. Regular movement is essential for managing chronic conditions. For instance, moderate exercise can improve insulin sensitivity in people with type 2 diabetes, reduce blood pressure in those with hypertension, and support better respiratory function in individuals with COPD. By using activity trackers, patients gain a clearer picture of their daily activity levels and can set achievable goals to gradually increase their physical engagement. This type of ongoing feedback fosters accountability and motivation, which are critical for lasting behavior change.
In summary, activity trackers go beyond simple fitness monitoring—they are impactful tools for promoting better health, particularly among those with chronic conditions. By tracking health data, encouraging consistent activity, aiding communication with healthcare professionals, and helping identify potential issues early, these devices can significantly enhance disease management and overall quality of life. As technology continues to evolve, their influence within the healthcare landscape is likely to grow even further.