Kefreen Batista, Vice President of Technologies at Globant, discusses the role of Quantum Computing and AI in healthcare.
Imagine a world in which complex medical diagnoses are almost instantaneous and personalized treatments are developed in record time. Although it is in its early stages, the effectiveness of quantum processing is making this reality closer than we imagine.
According to International Data Corporation (IDC), investments in the Quantum Computing (QC) market are expected to reach nearly US$16.4 billion by the end of 2027, representing a five-year compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 48.1%.
In addition, according to recent studies published in the Journal of Management, Information and Technology Studies, by 2025, about 40% of large corporations will be training professionals with quantum knowledge. The same research suggests that Quantum Computing is about to be adopted on a large scale through practical applications for various industries around the world, especially in the area of health.
In addition to rapid diagnoses and personalized treatments, this technology tends to revolutionize everything from molecular simulation to clinical trials, providing exponentially faster data processing. Vaccines that could take months to develop, for example, can take minutes with Quantum Computing.
It is something so extraordinary that it seems impossible. However, it is more real than ever. But how, in fact, does this processor work?
Unlike classical computers, which use bits (the smallest unit of information that can be stored or transmitted), quantum computers use qubits (unit of quantum information), which represent 0 and 1 at the same time, thanks to superposition combined with quantum entanglement, allowing for much faster and more efficient data processing.
Due to this system, CQ has almost infinite processing power, with practically unlimited possibilities for actions in various sectors. In addition, the combination of this feature with AI can lead to even more significant advances.
However, to achieve these exponential results, the advances of this cutting-edge technology still encounter some significant challenges along the way, such as the infrastructure of this system, which is considered complex, unstable and expensive.
Since several quantum computers are submerged in almost frozen waters so as not to suffer external interference, such as thermal noise, electromagnetic radiation and vibrations, which can cause errors in the calculations achieved, none of the companies investing in the technology inform the world where these processors are, thus further ensuring the advancement and security of Quantum Computing.
With this infinite and revolutionary potential, it is increasingly evident that we are on the verge of an unprecedented transformation in healthcare. In the not-too-distant future, we may see advanced molecular simulation and agile drug development promoted by this technology, which tends to completely reshape the medical landscape.
The promise of exponentially faster data processing means that we will not only optimize existing treatments, but also open new frontiers for cures for diseases that currently seem unattainable.