High performance computing and communications: potential applications in cancer research.

Abstract

Application of high performance computing and communications (HPCC) in the health care system has begun to unfold. Computers are increasingly being used in data information flow, patient management, diagnosis and in estimating prognosis, treatment, drug design, and the education, and training of health professionals. The fast gigabit network, three-dimensional displays of medical images, automation of laboratory testings, linkage of large databases, computer-aided diagnosis, and interpretation have revolutionized medical care. These achievements have been possible in large part due to rapidly advancing fields of software algorithms, computational science, and communication technologies that have enabled the user to remotely access and share information in consistent and cost-effective way regardless of their geographical location. The present article introduces several facets of 'HPCC grand challenges' and discusses the role of HPCC in cancer prevention and control through accurate diagnosis and prognosis, image analysis and interpretation, and faster database linkage for evaluating outcome of the cancer-related health services research.