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In today’s digital age, health tracking apps have become nearly ubiquitous, promising users greater control over their wellbeing. From monitoring sleep and step counts to tracking calorie intake and menstrual cycles, these platforms offer a range of features designed to help individuals stay on top of their health. However, medical experts are raising concerns that the overuse of such apps may be doing more harm than good for some users.
Dr Vivudh Singh, Senior Consultant at Fortis Escorts Heart Institute, cautions that while these tools can provide structure and motivation, they also carry risks. “Digital platforms for tracking weight and body metrics can backfire, especially when people become overly fixated on numbers,” he explains. This fixation can lead to or worsen issues such as body image problems, obsessive behaviors, and anxiety.
The phenomenon, sometimes referred to as ‘cyberchondria’, describes the anxiety that arises from constant self-monitoring. Dr Vinay Anaes, former head of the Resident Doctors Association at AIIMS, notes, “A person indulges in it so much that they develop anxiety over it. These apps are supposed to help you and aid you, not cause anxiety.” He also highlights a growing trend where patients resist clinical advice if it conflicts with app-generated data, sometimes arguing with doctors over issues like recommended sleep duration.
Dr Devanshu Gautam of Sir Ganga Ram Hospital has observed similar patterns. “I have personally observed this in a lot of patients where they are obsessing with their constant checking, and hence falling under the weight of health anxiety,” he says. Both Dr Gautam and Dr Tushar Tayal, Consultant at CK Birla Hospital, stress the importance of balance. While these platforms can be useful for quick health checks, overdependence can lead to unnecessary worry, especially when users misinterpret normal fluctuations in health metrics as signs of illness.
Not all tracking apps have the same impact. Varya, a final-year psychology student, points out that menstrual tracking apps can provide mental preparedness, while weight tracking apps may provoke anxiety. She advises users to be intentional and aware of their reasons for using such tools.
Experts agree that health tracking apps should be used as guides, not as substitutes for professional medical advice. Dr Anaes adds, “AI is not a temporary occurrence. It will keep evolving and stay with us. We must make sure that we are using AI as a helping aid, not making it our doctor”.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making decisions about your health or changing your health routines.
