Anti-Aging Medicine: Myths and Chances (original) (raw)

Technological innovations and biotechnological findings are revolutionizing medicine and health care. Following this shift in medical research and practice, the traditional concept of ageing has also been challenged by the development of “anti-ageing medicine”, which states that “ageing processes can be slowed down, stopped or even reversed”. What seemed impossible a few decades ago, has today become the priority of many scientists and medical professionals focussing on aspects such as regeneration processes, human enhancement, replacement of body parts or micro-engineered body monitoring. To bring light on what currently works or does not work in the field of anti-ageing medicine, TA-Swiss has directed a study and analysis on the many areas where anti-ageing medicine is proliferating along with a growing market of applications and products. Those range from therapeutic cloning, stem cells, genomics, human engineering, biogerontology to dietary supplements, to engineered solutions for a smart home and age-friendly environment. The international study of research, practice, market and consumers world was conducted through state of the art review as well as through expert interviews and clinical on site visits in the world and in Switzerland. The presentation will synthesize results and provide recommendations (policy, legislative, pharmaceutics, research) on the new developments in preventive care and interventions aiming at reversing decline, restoring lost functions, as well as technological devices for rehabilitation and care. The survey shows many interesting results, a few can be pointed out: (i) anti-ageing medicine touches a vast array of disciplines both medical and para-medical, which creates new professional venues and opportunities (ii) anti-ageing research findings are still difficult to generalize yet often promising, while specific anti-ageing interventions work in specific conditions (age, gender, health status, medical indication) it can be at risk for other situations or age groups (iii) the anti-ageing products are booming globally in an uncontrollable way: not only is there a lack of economic data on the market but also on consumers expenses, but more so, many products do not respond to a clear categorization (with official labels) and avoid control of its distribution internationally or through internet (iv) the consumer is often unaware of the risk undertaken for his health and is also often financially abused through consuming products with false claims. On the basis of those results, recommendations were formulated for the government, but also for the medical and non-medical practitioners, for the association of patients and for the market. In each of these sectors, the rapid pace of technological innovation reflects two contrasted sides: on one hand, measures are suggested to allow new technologies to be transferred for the benefit of the older patient and, on the other hand, further researches and quality control are needed to avoid any potential risks of non-tested technological interventions in order to protect the elderly population. Anti-ageing medicine is a transnational movement, thus, it is only through a concerted European and international regulation on anti-ageing medicine that the population will be better informed and allow for a safer and informed decision for every consumer.