The boomers are saying they know what predisposes us to cancer. They are looking at the research, making the right lifestyle choices and seeking early detection. If they do all that, they can conceivably prevent having cancer. One type of diabetes may also be prevented with a new vaccine within 15 years, Twibell said, while diet and exercise can prevent other forms of the disease. Also expected are injection of insulin by nasal spray and development of an artificial pancreas.
Baby boomers can also expect technology to provide new ways of treating and preventing illnesses.
Twibell cited creation of cell proteins that can repair diseased blood vessels, thus preventing heart disease and strokes. We can then go in and repair that defective gene. On the other hand, Twibell said bacteria are becoming more virulent and resistant. The issue of cloning will create increased ethical and economic controversies. She also expects an increase in sexually transmitted diseases for which drugs may prove ineffective.