Fitbit and Quest Diagnostics Collaborate to Advance Metabolic Health Research

Fitbit and Quest Diagnostics (NYSE: DGX) have joined forces in a collaborative effort, as announced on January 30, 2024, to explore the potential of wearable devices in enhancing metabolic health. The initiative, named the Wearables for Metabolic Health (WEAR-ME) pilot study, will integrate behavioral and biometric data from Fitbit devices with health insights from Quest Diagnostics’ laboratory tests. The primary objective is to investigate how this combined data can be analyzed to improve the assessment, management, and prevention of metabolic health issues leading to diseases like diabetes and heart disease.

The study aims to assess the impact of wearables on users’ behaviors, correlating the findings with objective laboratory test results. While wearables have demonstrated positive effects on modifiable behaviors such as diet, exercise, and sleep, research on health outcomes using objective measures is still evolving.

Richard Adams, Vice President and General Manager of Consumer-Initiated Testing at Quest, emphasized the study’s alignment with Quest’s mission to empower individuals in managing their health conveniently. The collaboration seeks to leverage laboratory testing to gain insights into motivating people to make healthier choices and improve their overall well-being.

The IRB-approved study plans to enlist around 1,500 existing Fitbit users who will consent to share three months of their Fitbit data. Participants will have the opportunity to undergo laboratory testing at no cost, focusing on a panel of blood tests designed to assess metabolic health indicators such as blood sugar, cholesterol, and triglycerides. The study will be facilitated through the Google Health Studies App, enabling participants to schedule blood draws at Quest patient service centers. A third-party physician will order tests, and participants will have direct access to their lab results through the Google app and Quest’s mobile app, MyQuest.

Metabolic health, a crucial factor in chronic disease risk, will be evaluated through benchmarks including blood sugar, cholesterol, and triglycerides. The WEAR-ME pilot study is expected to shed light on the impact of wearables on metabolic health, aiming for completion in 2024.

About Quest: Quest, through questhealth.com, empowers consumers by providing affordable, high-quality, and trusted healthcare services. Their consumer-initiated test service allows individuals access to quality lab tests, fostering control over their healthcare journeys.

About Quest Diagnostics: Quest Diagnostics focuses on empowering individuals to take action for better health outcomes. With a vast database of clinical lab results, they offer diagnostic insights to identify and treat diseases, inspire healthy behaviors, and enhance healthcare management.

About Fitbit: Fitbit aims to help individuals lead healthier, more active lives by providing data, inspiration, and guidance to achieve their goals. Their products and experiences track and motivate everyday health and fitness, offering personalized insights through software and interactive tools.