Technology in medicine – five advances that have changed the way we look after ourselves
The development of self-diagnostic tools, the growth of the internet and breakthroughs in microbiology are just a few of the ways in which medicine is advancing, thanks to new technology. We understand our health far better than any preceding generations, and here are five advances that have contributed to this change.
- The rise of the superbug
The MRSA outbreaks in hospitals and the growth of other superbugs made scientists aware of the need to develop new types of treatment for this killer disease. Until recently patients were prescribed antibiotics so frequently that these drugs were starting to lose their potency. New drug therapies have been introduced by the biotechnology industry that should help in the battle against ‘superbugs.’ Patients are aware of these problems and are cutting down on their antibiotic intake. Basic cleanliness can also help in the battle against disease and protective gloves from Brosch Direct and other reputable suppliers play an important part in this fight.
- The power of the internet
Some doctors love it, others think it’s dangerous, but the growth of the internet has led to online medical advice 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. With GP surgeries across the UK under increasing pressure, any patient who is concerned about certain symptoms they are displaying can just carry out their own research on the net. Obviously if the symptoms are prolonged, then a visit to the GP is necessary, but the internet is a clear example of how technology allows patients to take control over their lives and learn more about their bodies.
- Controlling diabetes
Diabetes is still a potential killer but advances in monitoring the condition and access to new technologies mean that patients can keep an accurate check on their illness and act accordingly. The online European health magazine Eucomed suggests diabetics are now able to ‘monitor on a daily basis and control their condition much more effectively.’ This process has led to diabetics enjoying a more fulfilled life, confident that their debilitating condition is under control.
- The power of self-monitoring
The jury is still out about the efficiency of the new wristbands that help wearers monitor their health. The recent stock market flotation of the Fitbit shows the growing trend in digital self-monitoring products and as an article in The Guardian suggests biometrics is becoming increasingly popular. Critics claim that the information collected by the wristband won’t always remain confidential. Putting that argument to one side, by monitoring our health on a regular basis it’s easy to lead a healthy lifestyle and live longer.
- The power of the scan
The easiest way to diagnose what’s going on inside the human body is to go for a scan. If you’re at all worried about your liver, heart or any other organs you can now have a 10-minute scan rather than an invasive biopsy. This means that potential health problems can be dealt with before they become a major illness and patients have a greater opportunity to modify their lifestyles accordingly.
Category: Health
