Using wearable technology to predict heavy drinking during recovery from alcohol use disorder

Characterizing initial recovery from alcohol use disorder and predicting heavy drinking using mobile biosensors

NIH-funded research Yale University · NIH-11024699

This study is looking at how smart wearable devices can help people recovering from alcohol use disorder by predicting when they might be at risk of heavy drinking, so they can get the support they need right when they need it.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionYale University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (New Haven, United States)
Project IDNIH-11024699 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how wearable biosensors and artificial intelligence can help predict heavy drinking episodes in individuals recovering from alcohol use disorder. By collecting data from devices that monitor physiological signals, such as heart rate and alcohol levels, the study aims to create real-time models that can identify when a person is at risk of drinking heavily. Participants will wear these biosensors and provide self-reports to help researchers understand the factors influencing their recovery. The goal is to improve support for individuals in the early stages of recovery by providing timely interventions based on their physiological data.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 21 and older who are in the early stages of recovery from alcohol use disorder.

Not a fit: Patients who are not currently recovering from alcohol use disorder or are under 21 years old may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to personalized interventions that help individuals maintain sobriety during critical recovery periods.

How similar studies have performed: Preliminary studies using AI and wearable sensors have shown promise in identifying risks associated with alcohol use, suggesting that this approach could be effective.

Where this research is happening

New Haven, 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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.