Wearable Technologies in Inflammatory Bowel Disease: A Scoping Review.

BACKGROUND & AIMS: Use of wearable technologies is increasing and may offer potential benefits in collecting actionable health data. We performed a scoping review on the use of wearable technologies in patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).

METHODS

The PubMed, Embase, and Scopus databases were searched until February 7, 2025, and original studies on the use of wearables in IBD were included. Systematic reviews, meta-analyses, comments, abstracts, and unrelated works were excluded. Data regarding study methods, participant demographics, IBD subtypes (ulcerative colitis or Crohn's disease), and the types and brands of wearables used were extracted and presented.

RESULTS

Thirty-seven studies were included. Physical activity and step counts were reported most frequently (15 and 8 studies, respectively). Sleep data (6 studies), cytokines (5 studies), heart rate variability (3 studies), and bowel sounds (1 study) were some of the other parameters analyzed. Two studies focused on virtual reality-based interventions, and 3 investigated patient attitudes toward wearable technology. The studies suggest lower physical activity in patients with IBD as compared with control subjects and in active disease as compared with remission. Changes in heart rate and heart rate variability could provide early clues to flares. Feasibility of cytokine measurements was demonstrated using sweat sensors. Sleep parameters were impacted in active IBD. Virtual reality-based interventions seemed to reduce anxiety and promote relaxation.

CONCLUSIONS

Wearables may be useful to improve psychosocial health of patients with IBD and contribute to holistic care. Their role in early detection of flares needs further evaluation.