NASA Technologies Contribute to Medical Breakthroughs by Dr. Robert Norwood lthough NASA's primary missions remain space exploration, space science and advanced aeronautical research, NASA continues to reach new heights in other fields. The medical field, in particular, has benefited from NASA research on how space flight affects the cardiovascular system.
Cardiovascular disease is prioritized as a leading cause of death in the United States.
Techniques derived from space research have led to more sophisticated, less costly, less painful methods of treatment. Breakthrough discoveries in research for the treatment of the cardiovascular system have proven fruitful in revolutionizing the practice of medicine. For example, NASA research in small high-performance spacecraft has resulted in technology that has improved heart pacemakers. During the late 1970's through the 80's, NASA was a key player in the development of the first implantable heart defibrillator, which won Food and Drug Administration approval. Other NASA technologies contributing to the AICD are computer modeling and quality control techniques.