Advanced Technologies That Change Cancer Care

Cancer is the second leading cause of death worldwide. A significant portion of medical research deals with oncology — for example, mRNA vaccines have also been developed primarily for cancer immunotherapy. In our latest article, 13 Technologies That Will Shape The Future Of Cancer Care, we collected those technologies that help the three essential levels in cancer care.

And if you have any questions about ANYTHING in digital health, you think I can give you an answer to, join our Q&A today! It’s at 4 p.m. CET/10 a.m. EDT, when I’ll talk about the latest news and developments in digital health technology (from astronauts printing organs in space to the controversial new Alzheimer drug). Don’t worry if you miss it: you can always re-watch it here!

Take care,

Berci

THE CONTROVERSY OVER THE FDA'S APPROVAL OF THE FIRST ALZHEIMER’S TREATMENT KEEPS GROWING

On June 7, the FDA approved a drug (under the brand name Aduhelm) to address the underlying causes of Alzheimer’s disease. It became a highly controversial decision that divided the Alzheimer’s community. Patients and advocacy groups, including the Alzheimer’s Association, support the approval. Neurology and dementia experts, as well as statisticians who have looked at the data the drug makers submitted for approval, are more sceptical.

This is the first drug approved for the disease since 2003 – no wonder it faces high expectations. However, the proof of efficacy is not entirely convincing, and side effects can also be severe.

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CORPORATIONS WANT TO PUT ADVERTISEMENTS IN YOUR DREAMS

Scientists have a stark warning for us: Companies want to target your dreams with advertisements — and they’re already doing it. Forty sleep researchers have signed an open letter calling on legislators to regulate “targeted dream incubation (TDI).” In it, warned that large corporations such as Coors’ and Burger King were actively attempting to engineer the dreams of potential customers.

There are some elements of life where technology should have no place. I'm thinking about dreams, intimacy or emotions, among others. Here is a recent story that depicts a dystopian scenario, and it makes sense to fight against it now while we are still in time.

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APPLE ANNOUNCES NEW FEATURES TO SHARE HEALTH DATA WITH DOCTORS, TRACK TRENDS OVER TIME

Apple is making it easier than ever for users to make the most of the mountains of health data already in the palm of their hands. Apple revealed a new feature for users who have opted to share their medical records on their devices. Users can now choose the types of information they would like to share — such as an elevated cholesterol level or their physical activity history — and identify specific people to send it to, such as family members or clinicians.

Researchers followed 625 people with heart conditions (125 people used a wearable device such as the Apple Watch or Fitbit, and 500 people didn't). I don't see if we can draw any conclusions from such a small study, but it seems reassuring that data can help engage patients more.

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LIFESTYLE MEDICINE: KIDS’ SPORTS OFFER AN INVESTMENT IN FUTURE HEALTH

The results of this study are not surprising but act as a good reminder of how important sports should play in our children's lives. “This study showed that male and female participants who were consistently involved in sport throughout childhood and adolescence had the greatest cardiorespiratory fitness in adulthood.” The authors also mentioned that it’s not just the parents’ responsibility to keep kids in the game, but leagues should also track their dropout rate and follow up with kids and teens who leave their team or fail to re-register at the start of a new season.

So what can you do? If you have a kid or know one, encourage them to pursue any kinds of sports! I do that too.

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MORE NEWS ABOUT THE FUTURE OF MEDICINE

MISSION ACCOMPLISHED – The Human Genome Is—Finally!—Complete

HEALTH BREAKTHROUGHS – The 10 Most Important Health Breakthroughs You Missed During the Pandemic

WALMART – Walmart Signals Plans To Offer Telehealth In 16 More States

STRETCHABLE SCREEN? – Samsung Shows Off Stretchable OLED Screen In Prototype Heart Rate Monitor