Targeting preventative health measures within the first twenty years of life offers a unique opportunity to change the human condition for this and future generations.
Sustaining quality of life on Earth and in space requires transformative advances in science and technology, along with new models, policies and behaviors that will guide human development. The search for innovative technology solutions to ensure healthy astronauts orbiting the planet mirrors healthcare challenges faced by providers throughout the world. The same requirements for simple, rugged, ultra portable, low power devices to provide remote diagnostic capability serves dual needs for humans living within the extreme environments on and off the planet.
The first twenty years of human development are critical to ensuring a more healthy, equitable and productive human population on the planet. In both developed and developing countries adverse conditions during the first twenty years continue to threaten current and future generations with unacceptable rates of acute and chronic disease.
Profound opportunities and benefits could accrue to individuals and society that are living a healthier first twenty years including: increased overall life expectancy, improved quality of life, greater productivity and economic prosperity, improved cognitive ability for learning and creativity, and reduced strain on global health care systems.
The LAUNCH Health Challenge focused on innovations providing and improving:
• Optimal nutrition (access, choice, and quality of nutritious food and required nutrients)
• Regular participation in physical activity and healthy lifestyle choices.
• Participation in primary preventive health care including supporting infrastructure, such as diagnostic and monitoring technology