VTT’S HEALTH TECHNOLOGY SPEARHEADS OF 2010: Prevention and treatment of illnesses

Thursday, 18 March 2010 16:45

A new brochure of our health technology spearheads has been published. Take a view of the key areas, which are listed below, and download the brochure for further information.

1. Health through eating

Healthiness, weight management and digestive wellbeing are key aims of VTT’s Nutritech programme, as are the experience of foods, ease of use, and personalisation of product information.

2. The cancer-preventing effects of flavonoids uncovered

The cancer-reducing effect of flavonoids has long been recognised, but the reasons behind it have not been known. Research scientists from VTT, the University of Turku and the Finnish Cancer Organisations have uncovered new information on flavonoids. For example, a VTT research group observed that a flavonoid 'fisetin' effectively prevents normal cell division in cancer cells, and thus increases the death rate of cancer cells.

3. Prompt diagnostics for the discovery of Alzheimer’s

VTT has developed an automatic method which enables the quick and accurate analysis of MRI scans within the space of a few minutes to identify disease. The new method is part of a system currently developed under the EU PredictAD project to help diagnose Alzheimer’s disease.

4. IT and health records

The population is ageing, and the demand for health care services is growing. With its ICT for Health programme, VTT is seeking solutions to the problem. Health care can be developed by improving discussion between citizens and professionals and encouraging citizens to take a more active role in managing their own health.

5. Metabolic disorders precursor to type 1 diabetes

Finnish research scientists from VTT and the Universities of Turku, Oulu and Tampere have demonstrated that disturbances in lipid and amino acid metabolism in children and young people are a precursor to the onset of type 1 diabetes. The alterations can be analysed months or even years before the onset of the disease. The results will prompt new approaches in the development of preventative or retardant treatments for the disease. The study exploited the metabolomics expertise at VTT.

6. Break free from stress

28 % of working-age Finns experience mild or serious burnout. Chronic stress may increase mental health problems. In the P4Well research project a service concept has been developed for managing the wellbeing of working-age people. The service offers opportunities for better stress management and recovery in everyday life. The service concept developed by VTT and its research partners has utilised measuring instruments, such as pulse, step and activity meters, as well as for example wellbeing diary and relaxation applications that operate on mobile phones.

Please, download the brochure below:

VTT Health Technology Spearheads of 2010.pdf