A future where nano-robots eliminate cancer cells by navigating through blood vessels, and microscopic sensors under the skin provide real-time health updates every second, is not far off, said renowned cardiologist Dr Ramakanta Panda during the Dr K. G. Deshpande Memorial Lecture in Nagpur.
Speaking on the theme “Vision to Reality – The Future of Technology-Driven Healthcare”, Dr Ramakanta Panda shared a glimpse into the emerging landscape of medical science powered by quantum computing, artificial intelligence (AI), genome sequencing, big data, personalised treatment, and nanotechnology.
Dr Panda explained that the evolution of healthcare is underway, with laboratories becoming highly miniaturised and AI-powered, enabling highly accurate disease diagnosis. Everyday objects will soon become ‘digitally smart’, while wearable and implantable devices will monitor bodily functions through GPRS and provide health updates in real time.
He revealed that nano-robots, currently in their final research phase, will soon be capable of navigating the bloodstream to reach and destroy cancerous tumours. These micro-devices will also support tissue regeneration and apply smart patches to heal injuries. Dr Panda noted that genome sequencing, once prohibitively expensive, is now becoming accessible to the general public and will soon enable early identification of disease risks, allowing preventive measures to be taken.
Dr Ramakanta Panda: AI and Smart Implants for Preventive Care
Dr Ramakanta Panda further highlighted that in the future, microscopic smart receptors will be implanted beneath every individual’s skin. These will be connected to quantum systems and will monitor the body continuously. Any subtle change in health will be detected instantly. Artificial intelligence will interpret the data and issue early warnings of impending strokes or cardiac arrests, allowing timely medical intervention.
Dr Panda also remarked that although the current application of AI in healthcare is only around 3%, quantum computing will revolutionize drug discovery and development, even reducing the need for traditional clinical trials.
