The politics of health: how elections will impact on life sciences

Advancements in areas like gene editing, reproductive technologies, and artificial intelligence raise profound questions about their application and potential consequences.

In the contentious issue of abortion, the tension between reactionary policies of populist governments and rapidly advancing technologies have blurred the lines, challenging established ethical and legal frameworks.

Shifting demographics and the prioritisation of healthcare spending:

Globally, governments face the dual challenge of aging populations and declining birth rates. This demographic shift will force difficult choices regarding healthcare spending priorities.

Will governments prioritise geriatric care and technologies aimed at managing age-related diseases, or will they focus on preventative care and technologies promoting the health and well-being of younger generations?

The potential for a government-led initiative to incentivise childbirth through improved maternal healthcare and childcare support underlines this critical dilemma. The outcome of this debate will have significant implications for the types of technologies and research that receive government support and funding.

The potential of emerging markets:

While established markets grapple with these challenges, emerging economies, particularly in South-East Asia and South America, present a compelling alternative.

These regions often boast rapidly growing populations, increasing healthcare expenditure, and a burgeoning middle class with rising healthcare demands.

Governments in these regions are actively seeking to attract foreign investment and develop their domestic healthcare industries. Companies willing to navigate the complexities of these markets, including regulatory hurdles and infrastructure limitations, could find significant growth opportunities.