Tracking your health data through devices like Fitbits can be more than just a tool for personal wellness; it can also have significant financial benefits. S. Jay Olshansky, a public health professor and chief scientist at Lapetus Solutions, highlights the rise of a "health-data economy," where your daily activities, such as the number of steps you take, can be of great interest to various firms, including medical, actuarial, and retail manufacturers.

In recent years, the application of artificial intelligence (AI) in the healthcare sector has expanded significantly, with tools like OpenAI's ChatGPT offering innovative methods for data analysis and summarization. One such application is the generation of summaries for individual health data, which can then be utilized in creating comprehensive electronic health profiles. Leveraging the natural language processing (NLP) capabilities of ChatGPT, raw and complex medical data can be translated into accessible, patient-friendly language. This can help patients better understand their health status and facilitate more effective communication with healthcare providers.

As DNA testing becomes more commonplace, the information it reveals — from our ancestral roots to health predispositions — becomes a tantalizing target for malicious actors. Beyond the obvious concerns of identity theft and fraud, the article delves into more nuanced threats, including blackmail based on genetic secrets, potential discrimination from employers or insurers, and the unsettling prospects of biometric profiling. In an era where our genetic blueprint can be as revealing as our digital footprint, understanding these vulnerabilities is paramount for safeguarding our most personal data.