Last updated April 12, 2019
The devices individuals choose to use can say a lot about their tastes and preferences. Getting the new iPhone on the first day it appears may tell the world that a person is highly concerned with status or with staying ahead of the crowd. Using the same beat up cell phone for five years running may announce a distinct lack of concern with issues of style and fashion.
Now, however, it appears that the difference between smartphones and simpler ‘feature’ phones may actually say something about the level of concern an individual has about his or her health status. A new study has found that more than 50 percent of all smartphone owners use their devices to collect information about health issues. Among feature phone owners, the figure stands at a mere six percent.
The study was conducted by the Pew Research Center. It found that some types of individuals are more likely to use their smartphones to gather health information. These included African-Americans, Hispanics, persons aged 18-49, and anyone with a college degree.
Life experiences also play a role. Those with health problems and those who care for individuals with health issues are more likely to use their phones to find details about diseases, conditions, and medication options.
Smart phones can run specialized apps that provide health information as well. Feature phone owners who switch to a smart phone should be sure to recycle used phones online for cash.