TIME's Health 100: Indians shine in global healthcare with gene editing & AI breakthroughs
New Delhi (The Uttam Hindu): Time magazine has released its much-awaited list of the world's 100 most influential people in healthcare for the year 2026. This prestigious list includes eminent doctors and scientists who have revolutionized the world of medical science through their unique research and cutting-edge technologies. This year, a total of 39 women have secured their place in the list. It is a matter of great pride for India that six Indian and six Indian-origin experts are shining on this global list. Let us learn in detail about these prominent figures whose discoveries have made healthcare much easier and more accessible than before.
Karan Singhal changes healthcare with AI
Karan Singhal, in collaboration with Open AI, has formed a specialized health team. This team includes 260 experienced doctors and has created "ChatGPT for Healthcare." Its primary objective is to provide patients with accurate medical advice and treatment. Today, approximately 40 million people worldwide consult this platform daily regarding their health concerns. Patients also have the ability to upload their medical records, enabling accurate and quick analysis of diseases.
Kiran Musunuru's emphasis on correcting gene mutations
Kiran Musunuru, in collaboration with gene therapy expert Dr. Rebecca Nicklas, has made a significant breakthrough in the treatment of rare genetic diseases in children using customized CRISPR technology. Their primary focus is on correcting congenital gene mutations. Their research has enabled timely, accurate treatment, reducing the devastating effects of the disease and significantly improving the quality of life for children.
Siddhartha Mukherjee is bringing a major turning point in medical science
Renowned oncologist Siddhartha Mukherjee of Columbia University is ushering in a new era in medical science. He, along with Reid Hoffman, has launched "Manas AI," a program that is accelerating the discovery of new drugs using artificial intelligence. Within just six months, Mukherjee has developed millions of virtual drugs. Now, he is preparing to test a select few of these drugs directly on cancer cells, which could prove to be a milestone in cancer treatment in the future.
Learn about Nabarun Dasgupta saving people from drug overdose
Nabarun Dasgupta is engaged in a vital mission to combat the deepening opioid crisis in America and reduce drug overdoses. He is saving lives by accurately identifying dangerous drugs. He has delivered the life-saving drug "naloxone" to nearly 6 million people so far. He also provides essential and practical training to help people stay safe from the dangers of drugs.
Preeti Bandi's significant contribution to cancer research
Preeti Bandy, who has been conducting extensive cancer research for decades, believes that if every eligible adult in the United States were screened for lung cancer in a timely manner, more than 62,000 deaths could be averted over the next five years. Preeti Bandy, who serves as Science Director of the American Cancer Society, unequivocally states that excellent science always lays a strong foundation for sound and effective policies.