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 & should be available over the next few years.
- 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 & implanted allowing accurate monitoring of metabolism & early disease states, long before any symptoms, offering much earlier preventative strategies & therapy.
- Gene screening & 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 & effectiveness of modern medical therapies.
Vaccines are being developed for not only most infectious diseases but also cardiovascular disease, cancer, dementia & 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.