Wearable medical tech is about to become crucial for staying alive

Medical treatment today primarily takes the form of drugs and therapy. But a third option is slowly emerging: on-body, digital devices that can treat both mental and physical conditions. Such "wearable" therapy offers unique advantages in that it is often more targeted, cheaper, personalised and has fewer negative side effects. Mobile and wearable devices such as phones or fitness trackers are now routinely used for preventive health. They monitor physiological data and behaviour, increase self-awareness and encourage behaviour change.