The future is now: advancements in medicine
Moore’s Law of computing basically suggests that computing power doubles every two years. I would suggest that a similar principle applies to advancements in medicine.
We are approaching cures to many of our common killers, such as cardiovascular disease, cancer & dementia. Our therapies for most common diseases have markedly improved over the past few decades.
Regardless, medical science is making enormous strides in a number of areas, with many of these approaching prime time and should be available over the next few years.
New therapies and science
- Anti-ageing therapies. A number of laboratories around the world are establishing specific anti-ageing drugs & supplements which are showing great promise for a condition that starts in all of us from age 30.
- Biosensing. From simple self-monitoring of blood pressure & blood sugar levels to new devices both external and implanted allowing accurate monitoring of metabolism & early disease states, long before any symptoms, offering much earlier preventative strategies and therapy.
- Gene screening and genetic therapies. Since the mapping of the entire human genome in 2003, there have been enormous strides in this area, allowing a much more accurate assessment of the genetic contribution to all diseases, along with novel genetic manipulations for a number of disorders.
- Regenerative medicine. Stem cell therapies, bionics & 3-D printing are amongst some of the major advances in these areas.
- The new therapeutics. From nanotechnology to micro patch therapy, this burgeoning field is offering much more personalised, streamlined therapies which will improve compliance and effectiveness of modern medical therapies
Vaccines are being developed for not only most infectious diseases but also cardiovascular disease, cancer, dementia and even drug addiction.
New electro-magnetic therapies are introducing another realm to medical treatments. Over the last decade there is increasing emphasis on the vital role the gut microbiome plays in a number of systemic diseases. New therapies to restore a healthy gut microbiome have already emerged on the market.
The future of medicine is a very exciting prospect but, in many ways, we can already say, the future is now. It is an exciting time to be alive.