A Breakdown of the Top Medical Advances of 2018

Introduction

Medical advancements have been transforming healthcare for many years, and 2018 was no different. Last year saw some of the most significant breakthroughs in medical research designed to improve patient outcomes. In this article, we will break down the top medical advances of 2018.

Cancer Immunotherapy

Cancer remains one of the leading causes of death globally, and the quest for a cure continues. However, in 2018, we saw significant progress in cancer immunotherapy. This breakthrough involves leveraging the body’s immune system to fight cancer. The therapy uses a patient’s immune system to identify and destroy cancer cells. The treatment has already shown impressive results in patients with melanoma, lung, bladder, and kidney cancers.

3D Printing in Medicine

While 3D printing has been in existence for many years, 2018 was a turning point for the technology in medicine. Surgeons are now using 3D printing to design and manufacture patient-specific implants and models to aid in planning surgeries. The technology has also been used to create prosthetic limbs, dental implants, and bionic eyes. This advancement has greatly improved patient outcomes by tailoring medical solutions to individual patients.

Gene Therapy

Gene therapy is a technique that involves altering or replacing a gene in an individual’s DNA to treat or cure a disease. In 2018, we saw many successful gene therapy trials for treating diseases like spinal muscular atrophy and inherited vision loss. Researchers are optimistic that gene therapy could also be used to eliminate inherited diseases like cystic fibrosis and sickle cell anemia.

Virtual Reality in Therapy

Virtual reality-based therapy has been around for some years, but 2018 saw a significant improvement in this technology. Researchers are using virtual reality to treat anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The technology creates an immersive environment designed to replicate anxiety-provoking situations or traumatic events. It helps individuals confront their fears and develop coping mechanisms to manage real-life situations.

Conclusion

In conclusion, 2018 saw some remarkable medical advances that have the potential to change lives. From cancer immunotherapy to virtual reality-based therapy, the progress in medical research is impressive. With these advancements, patients can expect tailored medical solutions, more effective treatments, and improved overall outcomes. Medical science continues to push boundaries and offer hope to individuals battling various diseases.