Advancing the science of digital biomarkers

Abstract

Digital biomarkers are the physiological and behavioral measures collected via connected digital devices or wearable and mobile computing systems. A set of accurately and reproducibly measurable digital biomarkers can be used to predict and influence various health conditions, outcomes, and to generate actionable insights. In recent years, we observed a rapid growth in adoption of digital biomarkers in the medical literature, computer science research, and digital health industry. Advancing the translational science of digital biomarkers requires the continuous integration of key technological innovations from the areas of mobile computing, machine learning, health sciences and medicine. This editorial aims to lay out a brief overview of the current state of digital biomarkers research, recent initiatives taken by researchers to promote research and development of this area, and the key challenges and opportunities in this field.