Daily Smartphone Use Might Offer Clues to Depression
Small study contends that people who use the devices more often are likelier to have the disorder
However, Pinkhasov said the study sample was slanted heavily towards older women, who tend to have higher rates of depression. He also believes that physicians and patients should be wary of relying too much "on technology and self-diagnosis" via smartphone.
But another expert said the study is in tune with a trend to track health and health care using new technologies.
"New 'apps' will help to identify high-risk patients and offer treatments that can help," said Dr. Scott Krakower, assistant unit chief of psychiatry at Zucker Hillside Hospital in Glen Oaks, N.Y. "The question will be how to find a balance between finding the right treatment, while respecting privacy at the same time."
"Of course," he added, "we should not negate the value of human input -- a continued, necessary staple in this computerized world."
Daily Smartphone Use Might Offer Depression Clues
Small study contends that people who use the devices more often are likelier to have the disorder
However, Pinkhasov said the study sample was slanted heavily towards older women, who tend to have higher rates of depression. He also believes that physicians and patients should be wary of relying too much "on technology and self-diagnosis" via smartphone.
But another expert said the study is in tune with a trend to track health and health care using new technologies.
"New 'apps' will help to identify high-risk patients and offer treatments that can help," said Dr. Scott Krakower, assistant unit chief of psychiatry at Zucker Hillside Hospital in Glen Oaks, N.Y. "The question will be how to find a balance between finding the right treatment, while respecting privacy at the same time."
"Of course," he added, "we should not negate the value of human input -- a continued, necessary staple in this computerized world."
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