Digital Biomarkers And Endpoints: Why They Matter In A DCT Setting

Various data points, including digital biomarkers, are critical in helping researchers assess the efficacy and safety of therapeutics in decentralized clinical trials (DCTs).

With the increased availability and reliability of personal medical devices, consumers and researchers alike have access to a wider range of digital biomarkers than ever before. Devices and apps count steps, track heart rate, assess sleep quantity and quality, and continuously track blood glucose and blood pressure levels, among other biomarkers.

The global market for wearable medical devices is estimated to be $12.1 billion this year, and approximately 30% of smartphone users in the U.S. use at least one health app.

For many interventions under study, the data of daily living gathered via these devices may be as important as the data gathered during routine laboratory check-ins with clinical trial participants. So, it follows that digital biomarkers stand to have a profound impact on — and even enable — the digital transformation of the healthcare industry and DCTs.