Date Created: 22 November 2011
Scotland could play a key role in helping the world’s population live longer and to lead healthier lives
A new report from Scottish Enterprise suggests that Scotland’s expertise in life sciences, chemicals and food and drink could be used to promote healthier lifestyles and reduce the risk of disease.
The world population is getting older and by 2050 around one in five people on the planet will be over 60 years old. This will bring with it a range of healthcare issues and an increase in chronic diseases such cardiovascular disease, obesity and diabetes.
Prevention of disease and early diagnosis
As a result, the philosophy of healthcare is shifting towards prevention of disease and early diagnosis.
Dr Liz Fletcher, Senior Executive in the Life Sciences Sector Team at Scottish Enterprise and author of the report, said:
“Chronic diseases are the root cause of over 60 percent of all deaths globally every year and the economic impact could reach £30 trillion over the next two decades.
"Faced with such huge and increasing costs there’s a real move towards maintaining health and wellbeing, and Scotland is well placed to be at the forefront of developing products and services to meet this need.”
Market expected to grow by 6.5 percent
Opportunities for Scotland include the market for foods and drinks fortified with health-giving ingredients such as omega 3 oils, soluble fibre and probiotics – a global market expected to grow by 6.5 percent a year to over $200 billion by 2016.
Scotland’s research expertise in nutrition, novel crop technologies and a strong food and drink sector means Scotland is well placed to play a significant role in this market.
Find out more about Scotland's food and drink sector