Active bodies, healthy lives

It is universally acknowledged that keeping fit contributes to better health. But what makes for good exercise, and can we use this information to help keep us healthier? Smartwatches and other wearable devices can track our every step. Available at a range of prices, the devices offer a variety of metrics, from a standard array of tracking steps and sleep hours to more involved measurements like heart rate, blood pressure estimates, and oxygen saturation. 
 
Swiss Re has engaged with a research study being undertaken at the University of Oxford to explore opportunities presented by digital data to help scientists improve human health.
 

An initial outcome of the study has been the creation of a machine-learning algorithm that can correlate a measure of step count with outcomes from cardiovascular disease and all-cause mortality. Such findings may provide actionable insights for the insurance sector which could inform the development of dynamic health protection solutions.
 
Read the report below.