Using smartwatches to predict binge drinking in first-year college students

Smartwatch-based predictors of binge drinking onset in first-year college students: A prospective study

NIH-funded research Temple Univ of the Commonwealth · NIH-11070075

This study is looking at how smartwatches can help spot early signs of binge drinking in first-year college students by tracking things like sleep, activity levels, and heart rate, so we can find ways to prevent problems before they start.

Quick facts

Grant typeFellowship grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionTemple Univ of the Commonwealth NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Philadelphia, United States)
Project IDNIH-11070075 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how smartwatches can help identify early signs of binge drinking among first-year college students. By monitoring health behaviors such as sleep patterns and physical activity, as well as physiological indicators like heart rate variability, the study aims to detect risk factors for binge drinking before they lead to harmful consequences. Participants will wear smartwatches that collect data over time, allowing researchers to analyze trends and patterns associated with binge drinking onset. The goal is to develop effective prevention strategies for this vulnerable population.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are first-year college students who are under 21 years old.

Not a fit: Patients who are not enrolled in college or are over the age of 21 may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to early interventions that reduce binge drinking and its associated risks among college students.

How similar studies have performed: While there is existing research on binge drinking and health behaviors, this approach using smartwatches to predict binge drinking onset is novel and has not been extensively tested.

Where this research is happening

Philadelphia, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions Affective Disorders
Last reviewed 2026-06-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.