In 2022, medical research took major strides, developing treatments addressing devastating medical conditions, furthering surgical procedures, and continuing the battle against COVID. While every step forward is worthy of celebration, some of the biggest medical breakthroughs of 2022 dramatically advanced medical science. Here’s a look at some of the most intriguing ones from the last year.
The Biggest Medical Breakthroughs of 2022
Completing the Map of the Human Genome
More than 20 years ago, scientists began mapping the human genome. Due to its complexity, the project was a massive undertaking. In 2022, scientists completed the work, finishing the map of the human genome.
While it may be years before the research yields additional results, the information is extremely valuable. It could provide clues about disease, aging, and human development that weren’t previously known. As a result, scientists may be able to use the data to create more effective treatments, understand why individuals react differently to medications, understand human adaptation to disease, and more.
New ALS Drug Received FDA Approval
For the first time in five years, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved a new amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) medication. Also referred to as Lou Gehrig’s Disease, ALS is a progressive neurogenerative disease that impacts nerve cells in the spinal cord and brain, leading to loss of muscle control and muscle wasting. It’s a fatal condition, with the average survival after diagnosis usually being between two and four years.
The newly approved medication – RELYVRIO – delayed the rate of decline in ALS patients. As a result, clinical trial participants who received the treatment lived longer than those who received placebos. While there are concerns among patients regarding the proposed cost, it still represents a significant advancement in ALS treatment.
New Type 1 Diabetes Delaying Medication Approved
In 2022, a new Type 1 diabetes medication achieved FDA approval. While there are many treatments available that manage Type 1 diabetes, this medication is different. The drug – TZIELD – could delay the onset of Type 1 diabetes, potentially for years. That could stall the need for ongoing medical treatment, such as the use of injectable insulin.
Pig-to-Human Heart Transplant
Xenotransplantation – the process of transplanting an organ from an animal into a human – is cutting-edge science, and it aims to overcome organ shortages that lead to so many deaths. In 2022, David Bennett Sr. became the first person to receive a heart transplant that involved receiving the heart of a pig. The pig was specially bred and gene-edited for the purpose, and the transplant was initially a success. Bennett lived for two months after the transplant, though he did later pass away, possibly due to the contraction of CMV, a disease acquired from the pig.
While Bennett didn’t survive long, two months shows the approach is potentially viable. As a result, advancements in this field will likely continue.
Progress on Combined COVID and Flu Vaccine
While the trials are only in their beginning phases, progress was made in 2022 toward a combined COVID and flu vaccine. Both Moderna and Pfizer are exploring the efficacy, safety, and dosage of vaccines that contain two COVID strain variants and four flu strains. If successful, it could simplify vaccinations in the future, allowing patients to receive a single vaccine to cover anticipated flu strains and shore up protection against COVID.
Diabetes Treatment Becomes a Weight Loss Drug
According to a study, Tirzepatide – originally developed as a treatment for Type 2 diabetes – showed significant promise as a weight loss drug. The concept initially arose after individuals using the medication to treat diabetes showed substantial weight loss. After that, studies were conducted on individuals that didn’t have diabetes, and the results were dramatic.
Lilly – the manufacturer of Tirzepatide – received the fast-track designation from the FDA in 2022. That allows the company to accelerate the development of the medication as a weight-loss treatment for obese individuals with weight-related comorbidities. As a result, it could lead to a viable option for obese individuals who struggle with losing weight using conventional methods.
Do You Need Reliable Medical Interpreters or Translators to Provide Better Patient Care?
For healthcare providers using the latest techniques, clinical researchers exploring new treatments, or others in the medical community, having access to skilled medical interpreters and translators is essential. The Acutrans team always holds itself to the highest possible standards, providing exceptional support and offering top-tier service to make communicating with patients easier.
If you need experienced medical interpreters, Acutrans is an industry-leading language services provider that can cover more than 200 languages. Whether you prefer on-site, video remote, or over-the-phone interpretation, Acutrans has programs designed with your needs in mind. Additionally, Acutrans provides certified medical document translations in 24 hours or less.
With top-quality medical interpreters and translators supporting your healthcare organization, you get the best possible results. For knowledgeable and professional medical interpreters or translators, Acutrans is a dependable, affordable solution. Contact us for a free quote today.