Exploring Innovations in Health: Drumming, 3D Audio, and Raman Spectroscopy

Welcome to this episode of our podcast, where we delve into the fascinating world of health innovations. Join Natasha Loder, the Economist's health editor, as she takes us on a journey through the Royal Society's Summer Science Festival in London.

Our first stop is a research project that explores the impact of drumming on mental health. Researchers have discovered that drumming can have a profound effect on social and emotional well-being. Not only does it provide a creative outlet, but it also has therapeutic benefits, particularly for individuals with autism and ADHD. Natasha dives into the details of this project and uncovers the potential of drumming as a tool for improving mental health.

Next, we explore the world of 3D virtual audio. This cutting-edge technology tricks the brain into perceiving sound in different locations, creating an immersive audio experience. While it has exciting applications in gaming, its potential goes beyond entertainment. Natasha uncovers how this technology can be used to improve hearing for individuals with sensory impairment, opening up a world of possibilities for those with hearing difficulties.

Our final stop takes us into the realm of Raman spectroscopy, a technique used to identify molecules. Researchers are working on making this technology portable and affordable for widespread use. Natasha delves into the potential of Raman spectroscopy in detecting diseases within the body, revolutionizing the way we diagnose and treat various conditions.

Join us as we explore these three groundbreaking projects that showcase the intersection of science and health. Discover how innovative solutions are paving the way for a healthier future.

Attending a science festival or an exhibition can be an exciting day out, while also being hugely informative. Natasha Loder, The Economist’s health editor visits the Royal Society’s summer exhibition to play with both the simple and cutting-edge technologies that have potential for healthcare. 

Natasha asks Clem Burke, drummer of the rock band Blondie, and Marcus Smith of the University of Chichester how drumming can help children with autism. Natasha also meets Lorenzo Picinali, of Imperial College London, who explains why creating audio that feels three-dimensional could be useful for people with sensory impairment. Plus, Sumeet Mahajan of the University of Southampton demonstrates how technology used in NASA’s Mars rover can be applied to the early detection of diseases. Gilead Amit, The Economist’s science correspondent, hosts. 

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