Google smartphones to test for illnesses in South Yorkshire study
Google is teaming up with local leaders and researchers for a unique study into health and technology
Last updated 1st Feb 2024
A first-of-its kind study will see scientists in South Yorkshire test whether smartphones sensors can help detect and prevent illnesses.
They are teaming up with tech giant Google to open the South Yorkshire Digital Health Hub, which will allow academics and local government to conduct a series of new research projects.
The first aims to understand whether Pixel smartphone sensors could aid the detection of common conditions such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol and chronic kidney disease.
Google will also provide 500 Fitbits for a separate study on post-surgical rehabilitation.
Tim Chico, professor of cardiovascular medicine at the University of Sheffield and director of South Yorkshire's Digital Health Hub, said: "We launched this health hub because we know that the more information we have about patients' health as early as possible, the more opportunities we will have to make a difference.
"With partners like Google, we are able to look at how we harness technology to support that information gathering, to support patients and medical professionals to make decisions together earlier leading to better outcomes."
Debbie Weinstein, managing director for Google UK and Ireland, added: "We're proud to be supporting South Yorkshire's academic, medical and local government institutions as they explore how technology could improve quality of life, free up valuable NHS resources and drive economic growth.
"Technology has the power to transform the nation's health and we recognise the need for an approach that unlocks both the innovative tools and the skills needed to implement these solutions.
"That's why we're excited to have this opportunity to invest in this cross-sector collaboration, which we hope will drive lasting change and serve as a proof of concept for other regions across the UK".
South Yorkshire's Mayor Oliver Coppard added: "Our partnership is based on our shared ambition to tackle the stark health inequalities that plague our communities, using cutting edge digital tools and solutions to address long-term problems."