Top 8 Most Controversial Stories About Medical Innovations

My days are spent monitoring progress and analysing new trends. I also learn about amazing new initiatives. It's no surprise that The Medical Futurist team is fascinated by the things we learn. Sometimes, a story can just break the fuses for one or more of our team members.

Here are 8 of my favorite controversial stories, almost entirely from this year. Important to remember that controversial does not necessarily mean bad or useless. It's not always accepted, but they are so unusual that it can be a talking point at any boring Christmas dinner.

These are our 8 choices, in no particular order.

Decoding thoughts from fMRI readings

This is mind-blowing. This is so amazing that cognitive neuroscientists would have laughed at you if you asked them 20 years ago about their advice to you to reduce your reading of sci-fi.

A University of Texas research team trained the algorithm using 3 subjects who listened to 16 hours of audio recordings over 16 fMRI scan sessions. The algorithm was then able to predict the content of other stories, based only on subjects' fMRI readings.

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The algorithm was “pretty good” at predicting the content of these stories, according to the team. Alexander Huth, the lead researcher explained that it “knows what's going on pretty accurately, but doesn't know who is doing it.” Also, the model was tested on scans from individuals who were not part of the training program. This meant that the algorithms couldn't match brain activity with audio patterns. It returned no useful information in these cases.

The slightly sweaty finger

Our team's number one 2022 insider meme was “Slightly Sweaty”. It's easy for us to see why. It's hard to miss this pink robotic finger with a distinctively shaped pink tip. It is also amazing because it was created by Japanese scientists and can heal itself.

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It is an “impressive technical feat” that blurs the lines between living flesh, machine and living flesh. However, scientists were split on whether people would find the lifelike anatomy creepy or warm to it. Our team was split, but most votes went for creepy.

AI Speaker Clones Parents' Voices To Read Bedtime Stories

Deepfake invades the bedrooms of children! An AI speaker can re-create parents' voices and read bedtime stories to their children when they aren't there. It comes preloaded with 60 stories and songs, ranging from nursery rhymes through The Brothers Grimm.

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It can be great for your spouse if they need to travel for work, or are stationed far from home. It is a bit disconcerting to consider how technology can be used to make our children spend less time with us and keep them busy with their own lives.

A 3D-printed nose grown on a patient's forearm

After losing her nose to cancer, experts in France created a 3D-printed new nose for a woman. “The Claudius Regaud Hospital and Toulouse University Hospital were able to successfully revascularise the patient's nose cavity, connecting the blood vessels with microsurgery.

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Although bioprinting is one the most exciting promises for the future of medicine there are still many steps to take before we can harvest ready-to-use organs. It takes some time to get used to the idea of seeing an organ on a random part of your body.

The DIY Blood Draw Devices

Some DIY blood draw devices are already FDA approved. These devices allow patients to collect high-quality diagnostic blood samples at home. They were then used in clinical trials and made available as direct-to consumer products.

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They're practical, can be used to save patients a lot of time and hassle, increase participation in clinical trials, and so on. You can still pack it all on the kitchen countertop and have the resolve to push that button. Watch your blood flow…

The Suicide Sarcophagus that Passes Legal Review

One of the most controversial topics is assisted suicide.

Switzerland may legalize the use of a 3D-printed capsule for assisted suicide. In 2020, around 1,300 people were assisted suicide in Switzerland using liquid sodium pentobarbital. Sarco has developed a machine that offers a new approach.

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“The capsule sits on an equipment piece that will rapidly reduce the oxygen level to 1%, from 21%. Before they lose consciousness, the person may feel disoriented and euphoric. It takes approximately 30 seconds to complete the whole process.

The Controversial Embryo Tests that Promise a Better Baby

It's the most offensive line ever in an advertisement. Genomic Prediction claims it can help potential parents answer this question by testing embryos for genetics during fertility treatment.

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It's safe, reliable, and medically accurate. Another question is whether or not it's ethical. Don't get me wrong. Any technology that improves the health of people, including embryos, I would consider using. Only if the technology is safe, has been medically tested, and has passed all ethical debates. We are still far from being able to be confident in the results of personal genomics and what polygenetic scores mean for disease risk.

New Zealand bans tobacco sales to anyone born after 2009

In the summer, New Zealand approved the first draft for the strictest tobacco law. In the hopes of raising the first generation without smoking, it would ban all tobacco products sales to those born after 2009.

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Everybody has the right to do whatever they want with their bodies. It becomes a shared responsibility if it has a significant impact on healthcare and healthcare costs. I am grateful to New Zealand for this.

The Medical Futurist published the post Top 8 Most Controversial Stories About Medical Innovations.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is holistic medicine opposite?

Holistic medicine, a method of health care, considers all aspects, including the spiritual, emotional, and environmental aspects. Holistic medicine is based in the notion that any illness must have multiple causes. This means that it needs a combination of treatment options to be effective.

Holistic medicine physicians believe prevention is better then cure. To achieve optimal wellness, holistic medicine doctors work closely alongside their patients.

They are trained to spot the root causes and prevent future disease. Holistic physicians treat the entire body, not just its organs. They refer to the whole of being as “the entire body.”

This means that they look beyond the skin and treat the body holistically. The doctor may recommend changes to your diet, exercise, or life style. The doctor may recommend meditation, yoga, massage, acupuncture or chiropractic treatment.

What are some of the benefits of complementary or alternative medicine?

People who feel that they are not receiving enough support from allopathic medicine can use complementary and alternate medicine (CAM). These include herbal medicines, mind-body therapies such as acupuncture, massage therapy, homeopathy, chiropractic care, traditional Chinese medicine, biofeedback, hypnosis, and spiritual healing. Because they are not compatible with conventional medicine's treatment and diagnosis, CAM practitioners may use alternative treatments. Many CAM therapies include elements of conventional medicine. Some forms of acupuncture use needles while others use acupressure and moxibustion with heat.

Some CAM treatments can be used to relieve pain, anxiety, stress, relaxation, sleep disorders, or manage stress. They may improve your general well-being as well as reduce fatigue. Some CAM therapies treat specific conditions, such as fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue syndrome, irritable bowel syndrome, rheumatoid arthritis, cancer, and diabetes. Other CAM therapies may simply be enjoyable experiences.

There is no definitive definition of CAM. However, most definitions include at a minimum one of the following:

A holistic perspective which considers both body and mind, as well the environment.
The belief that mind and body interact with each other and have an influence on one another
The belief that illness results from an imbalance between the individual and his/her environment
Focus on the whole person and not just the symptoms.
Combination of Eastern philosophy and Western science
Mind, body, and spirit-integrated treatment methods
Natural products are better than synthetic chemicals
Touch of healing
Mindfulness
Meditation
Acupuncture
Yoga
Herbal remedies
Homeopathy
Chiropractic care
Massage therapy
Hypnotherapy
Spiritual healing
Biofeedback
Nutritional counseling
Energy healing

Certain CAM therapies may not offer all the benefits. There are also risks. Some therapies can cause serious harm or even death if practiced incorrectly. Some have side effects, which should be balanced against their perceived benefits. If you are considering using any CAM, discuss these issues with your doctor before deciding whether to try them.

What are holistic medicines' advantages over conventional medicine?

Holistic medicine has been used by many religions and cultures for thousands years. They were based upon ancient knowledge and experienced.

These medicines can be used safely, effectively, naturally, and are affordable. Side effects are much less than those associated with pharmaceutical drugs.

They will also assist you in achieving better health and well-being.

They can prevent you from getting sick and boost your overall well being.

They could also cure heart disease, cancer, diabetes as well arthritis and asthma.

There are hundreds upon hundreds of traditional medicines around the world, each offering unique benefits.

The World Health Organization estimates that 80% of the population relies on traditional methods to treat illness or injury.

It was reported that about half a billion people rely on traditional herbal remedies for primary healthcare.

The global market in complementary therapies is expected to reach $22.2 Billion by 2020.

Alternative medical treatments are becoming more popular to avoid the side effects of conventional treatment.

Complementary therapies are often used when other options fail to work. These complementary therapies can also be used before undergoing surgery or medication.

There are many reasons that people choose complementary therapy.

To improve your quality of life
To reduce stress levels
Relaxation
To relieve pain
To enhance immunity
Supportive services for dealing with serious diseases
To boost energy
To control weight
To maintain good nutrition
To improve sleep patterns
To deal with chronic conditions

What treatments are not included in holistic medicine?

Holistic medicine is an approach to healing that looks at the whole person rather than just treating the symptoms. It helps people to recover from illness by promoting health and preventing disease.

Holistic medicine relies on natural remedies such homeopathy, herbs, and acupuncture to replace drugs and surgery.

Holistic medicine involves lifestyle changes such diet, exercise and yoga.

Integrative medicine is also known as holistic medicine. It integrates all aspects, including the patient's spiritual, mental, and physical needs, into a single comprehensive care plan.

Holistic medicine emphasizes prevention, early detection and healthy living.

Holistic doctors believe there is no one cause for every condition. Holistic doctors look at the whole picture, which includes genetic factors, environmental influences and lifestyle choices.

Holistic practitioners pay more attention to the mind, the emotions, and the spirit than to the body.

Holistic physicians consult with their patients to help them determine the best option for them.

Is holistic health care equivalent to alternative medicine?

Holistic Health Care distinguishes itself from Alternative Medicine because Holistic Health Care focuses on the whole person instead of just treating symptoms.

Holistic Health Care examines all aspects a person's health including the mental, emotional, spiritual and occupational factors as well as family factors.

Alternative Medicine doesn't address these issues. It doesn't address these issues.

What are the 5 domains in integrative medicine?

The five domains of integrative medicine include mind-body, nutrition, social determinants, lifestyle, and prevention. These five areas include all aspects health care including mental, spiritual, as well as environmental well-being.

Integrative medicine is a holistic approach to treating disease and overall health. It encompasses both conventional medical treatments as well as complementary therapies like acupuncture and yoga, meditation and massage therapy.

Why is alternative medicine important

Alternative medicines are more popular than traditional ones because they're usually cheaper and healthier. There have been cases in which patients have died from side effects, such as allergic reactions, after receiving these treatments. There are also alternatives that may be more effective.

In addition, alternative medicines can be dangerous if you don't know enough about them to choose the right ones. Vitamin supplements, such as vitamin pills, are not controlled like pharmaceuticals. Therefore, it is possible to overdose. Some alternative remedies can contain toxic chemicals, which is even worse.

Statistics

The concept of regression toward the mean implies that an extreme result is more likely to be followed by a less extreme result. (en.wikipedia.org)
These studies found that 38.4% concluded positive or possibly positive effects for CAM (12.4%), 4.8% concluded no effect, 0.7% concluded harmful effects, and 56.6% concluded insufficient evidence. (en.wikipedia.org)
The use of alternative medicine in the US has increased, with a 50 percent increase in expenditures and a 25 percent increase in the use of alternative therapies between 1990 and 1997 in America. (en.wikipedia.org)
An assessment of conventional treatments found that 41.3% concluded positive or possibly positive effects, 20% concluded no effect, 8.1% concluded net harmful effects, and 21.3% concluded insufficient evidence. (en.wikipedia.org)
category.[111]Edzard Ernst characterized the evidence for many alternative techniques as weak, nonexistent, or negative and in 2011, published his estimate that about 7.4% were based on “sound evidence.” However, he believes that may be an overestimate. (en.wikipedia.org)

External Links

How To

How to make a career in Holistic Medicine

The field holistic medicine is expanding at an unimaginable rate. There are many ways you can pursue this career path. If you are serious about this career, it is best to return to school.

Many schools offer holistic medicine courses. The National College for Complementary Medicines offers both undergraduate as well as postgraduate degrees. You can also find programs specifically tailored for medical professionals looking to enter the field.

In addition, numerous online universities are offering holistic health classes as well. One such program is called the Institute of Integrative Nutrition (IIN). This institution provides students with various holistic health education tools and resources.

Another option is to attend a traditional four year college. Many colleges now offer holistic courses. The University of California, for example, offers a Bachelor's degree in holistic health sciences.

You should take a nutrition course if you want to pursue a career in holistic medicine. NCCM recommends students take courses in nutrition before beginning any professional training. According to them, integrative medicine practitioners need to have a solid understanding of nutrition science.

Because holistic medicine focuses on treating the whole person rather than just focusing on symptoms, it requires more knowledge and skill than conventional medicine does. Holistic medicine will require that holistic practitioners understand how to evaluate various types of illness from an interdisciplinary perspective.

The NCCM states that nutritionists often work in conjunction with doctors to provide advice on diet to their patients. Some will even suggest supplements or diets based on the patient's specific condition.

As a result, holistic practitioners must have a firm grasp of basic nutrition principles. This includes knowing which foods are healthy, and which are not. It is also about identifying nutrient deficiencies as well as other problems that may cause them.

It is important to remember that holistic practitioners do not specialize in nutrition. Some are primarily focused on herbal treatments while others rely solely upon acupuncture. Some combine the two methods into one.

However, most holistic practitioners recommend a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, and grains. They also emphasize eating plenty of fish and seafood. They advise avoiding processed food products and fast food restaurants. They encourage people to eat only organic produce as much as possible.

Holistic practitioners agree that a healthy diet can prevent illness. There are some things that they disagree on. For example, they don’t believe gluten causes celiac. Instead, they believe that a lack in nutrients is responsible for the disorder's onset.

However, they agree that allergic reactions can be triggered by certain foods. They say peanuts and shellfish can cause anaphylaxis. They warn against too much caffeine.

Many holistic practitioners are able to use herbs to treat many illnesses. They avoid the use of pharmaceutical drugs. Because they believe that pharmaceutical drugs can only mask the problem, rather than solving it. As a result, they prefer to rely on natural remedies when possible.

Holistic practitioners often use a variety complementary therapies in addition to offering alternative treatments. These include:

Acupuncture is a form of Chinese medicine that involves strategically placing needles in the skin. It's believed that this stimulates the body's healing mechanism.
Herbal therapy: Holistic practitioners may use herbs to treat various conditions in addition to acupuncture. Ginseng is a common herb used in this area.
Homeopathy – Another form of traditional Chinese medicine, homeopathy is based on the principle of like cures. You might experience a similar symptom when you are suffering from the same condition as someone else. If this happens, it is important to seek out a remedy that contains the exact same ingredients as the original substance.
Massage therapy – Many holistic practitioners offer massage therapy to promote relaxation and reduce stress. Massage therapy is said to increase blood flow, improve energy levels, and relieve muscle tension.

It is important to find a practitioner who meets your needs when choosing one. For example, a practitioner who specializes in nutrition counseling is a good choice. You can also learn more about acupuncture by contacting a practitioner who is certified by the American Association of Oriental Medicine.

If you have any questions regarding holistic health care, ask your doctor before making any decisions. You may also wish to check with your insurance provider to know what services are covered.

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