Apple ResearchKit is a breakthrough that unifies scattered health interests among Apple users worldwide. This development aims to soon be able to conduct DNA tests for Apple device owners.
Apple is gearing towards its industrial potentials as it introduced ResearchKit in March. Although the company website stated that "everybody can do their part to advance medical research" the statement could be attributed to the widely successful open source development which invites contribution from both individuals and entities who has the capability and interest in the given subject.
This concept also supports the culture of self-diagnosis through internet information. The difference is that this app is most likely a guided one. People have become more self-reliant in gathering health info through sites such as WebMD and Mayoclinic. This sector in the information technology industry is largely popular without significant competition in the market as far as brand supported app is concern. Rumors report that Apple will not just embrace the health info market but will also embark it up a notch just like Google.
According to sources, the tech mogul will soon follow-up with an app that will allow Apple user DNA test. The company is currently in collaboration with US researchers for this DNA app which is based on its currently available ResearchKit. It has 2 planned studies where academic partners will be conducting the collection and testing of the DNAs and the data will be stored in a computing cloud while the findings could be accessible through the consumer's Apple device. One of ResearchKit's apps called mPower has already begun a mobile study about Parkinson's disease.
The company's website quoted that:
"The mPower is a unique iPhone application that uses a mix of surveys and tasks that activate phone sensors to collect and track health and symptoms of PD progression - like dexterity, balance or gait. Our goals are to learn about the variations of PD, to improve the way we describe these variations and to learn how mobile devices and sensors can help us to measure PD and its progression to ultimately improve the quality of life for people with PD. This study is unique in that it allows participants to step up as equal partners in the research process."
This initiative by Apple is starting to transform and make significant changes in the health information sector. With its aspiration for greater heights such as DNA tests through an Apple device, the company becomes a promising means to help shape the overall health industry of the future.
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