Hope or Hype – Fantastic Expectations for Biomedicine

What role does hope play in the progress of diseases with poor prospects of cure? When medical research generates new knowledge, discoveries, and possibly even breakthroughs, optimism often follows, igniting hopes for a future cure for otherwise incurable diseases. However, not all expectations can be met, and hope can sometimes turn into unrealistic hype. But how can researchers, doctors, and patients keep hope alive without abandoning realities?

This evening, three experts provide their perspective on hope and hype in biomedical research and treatment. Listen to Adam Bencard, associate professor at Medical Museion, sharing examples of how hope and hype have accompanied biomedical research throughout history. Psychologist and postdoctoral researcher at Medical Museion Tine Friis will give insights into her new research project that focuses on patients with Parkinson’s disease and their hopes for stem cell research. Lastly, Morten Blinkenberg, doctor at Dansk Multipel Sclerose Center at Rigshospitalet, will invite the audience into his consultation room to share his experiences treating hopeful patients with multiple sclerosis.

How can researchers, doctors, and patients manage their hopes for the development of new treatments? Is it possible for patients to experience too much hope? And what happens when a doctor extinguishes hope for relief and improvement that new treatments cannot provide?

The event is in English.