In today's world, it seems like everyone is talking about "big data." Whether I'm in a meeting or just having a conversation, the term always comes up—whether it's about analyzing something with big data or building systems using it. However, I recently came across some interesting discussions about "small data" in the American Computer Society Newsletter (CACM). I believe this concept is worth understanding and exploring further.
Big data refers to massive datasets that are too large to be processed by traditional tools. In the tech industry, it often relates to big data technologies, while in life sciences, it’s more about big data analysis. Those who manage big data hardware may not necessarily analyze it, as it requires specialized knowledge.
But there's another trend that's changing how we think about health: small data driven by personal digital tracking. With cloud-based applications, individuals can continuously track their daily activities—work, shopping, sleep, diet, exercise, and communication. This data is analyzed securely and privately over time, offering insights into one’s overall health. Personal devices and online services play a key role here, especially when it comes to self-tracking.
For example, I had a stomachache yesterday and started thinking: What was different from the day before? It turned out that I had switched to a new brand of wine. That small change might have caused the discomfort. This kind of small data helps me understand my own health better, even though it’s not as complex as big data.
Professor Deborah Estrin from Cornell University was one of the first to recognize the importance of small data. When her father passed away last year, she noticed subtle changes in his digital behavior—like fewer emails and shorter walks. These small shifts weren’t obvious on a medical test, but they hinted at a deeper issue. This inspired her to see small data as a new form of medical evidence, specifically "your data"—the data that belongs to you.
While big data has transformed many fields, including medicine, small data offers unique value. As wearable technology becomes more advanced, mobile devices will be able to collect and analyze your data continuously, securely, and privately. This could include everything from your sleeping patterns to your social interactions, helping to create a personalized health profile.
What are the benefits of having this digital health portrait? For instance, if you're managing a chronic condition, small data can help determine the right dosage for you, rather than relying solely on general guidelines. Chronic diseases, depression, memory issues, and conditions like Crohn’s disease all benefit from tracking daily behavior. While big data comes from large populations, small data focuses on “n=1â€â€”you.
We need data liberation, meaning that our personal data should be accessible and usable by us, not just corporations. Imagine being able to analyze your parents’ health data or compare treatment options based on real-time tracking. Small data can show how far you can walk, how early you leave home, and how effective your medication is.
Even more exciting is the potential of small data in cancer treatment. Personalized care relies on individual patient data, as each tumor behaves differently. Treatments must be tailored to specific genetic profiles, and this requires tracking behavioral patterns over time—exactly what small data provides.
Of course, big data still plays a crucial role in medicine. It helps establish general treatment guidelines and supports large-scale research. Countries are working on compiling patient databases to develop new therapies. Combining big data insights with small data personalization can lead to better outcomes.
Despite its popularity, the term "big data" is often used loosely. Just like 20 years ago when "system engineering" became a buzzword, people now throw around "big data" without truly understanding it. We should focus on solving real problems instead of just using jargon.
Small data is not a replacement for big data—it’s a complement. Together, they offer a more complete picture of health and well-being. By embracing both, we can move toward a future where healthcare is truly personalized and data-driven.
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