Abstract P3095: Disparities can be exacerbated by new technology for tracking physical activity

Abstract

Introduction: Health disparities persist and may be exacerbated by new technology, such as wearable devices tracking health behaviors. In particular, this digital division continues to bring poor health outcomes in racial/ethnic underrepresented groups. Hypotheses: We assessed the hypotheses that (1) the use of wearable devices would be associated with the level of physical activity, and (2) there would be differences in the use of wearable devices by demographic and sociocultural factors. Methods: A cross-sectional, community-based survey study was conducted in 525 Korean American adults residing in New Jersey, Ohio State, Georgia, and Texas. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and multiple regressions with statistical significance set at p <.05. Results: Most of the study sample (75%) did not use wearable devices to track their physical activity although 54% were diagnosed with more than one chronic condition. Almost half of them (49%) did not meet the current guidelines by engaging in moderate physical activity less than 150 min per week. Individuals who were younger than 60 years, college educated, income of $50,000 and more, full-time workers, proficient in English tended to use wearable devices than their counterparts, which in turn, were more likely to engage in physical activity. Conclusion: In conclusion, it is critical to address the significant disparities in the use of wearable device for tracking physical activity among Korean Americans. This indicates an opportunity to reduce health disparities by promoting physical activity using wearable devices. More specifically, provision of affordable wearable devices equipped with user-friendly features in conjunction of community education and support would be one way to promote physical activity. Also, particular attention should be given to the individuals who are older than 60 years, less educated, having low income, part-time workers or unemployed, or limited English proficiency. Further research using qualitative or mixed method design need to explore the underlying factors of low uses of wearable devices in Korean American adults.