Nanotechnology in Medicine and Healthcare: Possibilities; Progress and Problems

ABSTRACT

"Nanotechnology or nanoscience covers the investigation; design; manipulation; precision placement; measurement; modelling or fabrication of matter; structures; devices and systems that exist at the nanoscale - essentially at the atomic and molecular size levels. Nanotechnology has the potential to change the way we address some of the world's most critical development problems. In 2005; the United Nations (UN) Millennium Project's Taskforce on Science; Technology and Innovation concluded that nanotechnology can contribute to the attainment of the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs); specifically; the goals to reduce child mortality; improve maternal mortality and combat HIV/AIDS; malaria and other diseases. Health; specifically improved primary healthcare; is one of six focus areas highlighted in South Africa's National Nanotechnology Strategy (NNS); where nanotechnology can offer the most significant benefits for the country. Nanotechnology can revolutionise the practice of medicine and the delivery and accessibility of health care. However; despite the significant benefits of nanotechnology; there are problems that could prevent it from being widely accepted. The qualities that make nanotechnology so appealing are also those that give rise for concern. In particular; there are uncertainties about its potential impact on human health; the environment and societies in general; along with the concern that nanotechnology; much like genetic engineering or modification; is ""messing"" with the building blocks of nature and is therefore ""unnatural"" even unethical. This article considers these concerns and concludes that there is nothing intrinsically good or bad about nanotechnology; but that its acceptability will depend largely on how it used and introduced into society. "