Today’s world faces pressing challenges surrounding Inochi, challenges that have emerged alongside rapid advancements in science and technology. These include complex themes such as bioethics, human dignity, and the relationship between technology and humanity. Among these, utilizing science and technology to deliver personalized care tailored to each individual’s characteristics is especially vital for the future of society.

Personalized care is a health promotion approach that provides optimal prevention and treatment based on an individual’s health condition and living environment. It plays a crucial role in accurately safeguarding both physical and mental well-being and contributes significantly to realizing a future where every Inochi unleashes its radiant light.To ensure that everyone can live healthier, richer lives, it is essential to deliver healthcare that meets individual needs through science and technology. Spreading these technologies throughout society will be key to building a healthy and happy future.

At the Kanki Laboratory of the Institute of Scientific and Industrial Research, The University of Osaka, research has been conducted on developing high-sensitivity sensors capable of pulse wave and electrocardiographic measurements—foundational technologies for personalized care*1*2. In particular, systems have been developed to measure heart rate and autonomic nervous system activity with reduced noise even in everyday and group activity settings. Further research is underway to create systems capable of analyzing various physiological data to assess levels of stress and relaxation. These technologies represent important steps toward the real-time understanding of individual health conditions and the realization of personalized care in the future*3.

Moreover, it is essential to use science and technology to broadly disseminate knowledge and techniques related to Inochi. To achieve this, the Kanki Laboratory is introducing educational programs in schools and communities that use heart rate and autonomic nervous system monitoring to foster understanding of Inochi, aiming to help younger generations appreciate the preciousness of Inochi through scientific insights. In local communities, healthcare support initiatives are being promoted, utilizing developed devices and systems to implement stress reduction and resilience enhancement programs within various group activities*4. These efforts are designed to cultivate a consciousness of nurturing Inochi across all generations.

An image of personalized care utilising science and technology

In addition, it is crucial to establish a “co-creation network” where individuals from diverse backgrounds collaborate on health and stress management while respecting diversity. The Kanki Laboratory is developing new health management methods based on physiological data collected from diverse individuals, including those with developmental disabilities, in collaboration with researchers from various fields and healthcare professionals. Educational programs are also being introduced to promote understanding and acceptance of individual diversity. Furthermore, to foster global collaboration, an online platform is being developed to share knowledge and resources on health management, aiming to realize a sustainable, diversity-conscious health-promoting society by 2050.

The Inochi Forum will engage in these activities, striving to realize a future where every person nurtures and feels Inochi through the promotion of personalized health management and respect for diversity powered by science and technology.

[Notes]

*1 Development of ultra-sensitive strain sensors using flexible VO₂ thin films:

https://www.jstage.jst.go.jp/article/jsapmeeting/2019.1/0/2019.1_1353/_pdf/-char/ja

*2 Enhancing the sensitivity of flexible strain sensors by 200

times:

https://resou.osaka-u.ac.jp/ja/research/2019/20191218_3

*3 Latest update on the Mirai Human Washing Machine®︎, “TEAM EXPO 2025” Program:

*4 Moonshot Research and Development Program Goal 9 – Protecting Children’s Curiosity and Individuality for a Vibrant Society:
https://www.jst.go.jp/moonshot/program/goal9/97_kikuchi.html#c-list

[Action Platform]
Diversity and Inclusion

[SDGs]