Quantum Computing: Future of diagnostics is being coded today

A silent revolution is being built at the intersection of biology and quantum physics. After decades of pushing the boundaries of diagnostics with advanced imaging and AI, we are now approaching a hard computational wall. For complex conditions like Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and many cancers, the interacting variables of genomics, proteomics, and real-world patient data are simply too vast for classical computers to master. This limitation caps the ability to move from merely spotting correlations to uncovering true causation. Unlike traditional AI, quantum computing can simulate underlying physical systems to derive precise solutions. The transition from correlational analysis to causal simulation will enable a more valuable and advanced frontier in diagnostics.

- Ayush Singh

The global quantum computing in healthcare market, valued at $120 million in 2024, is projected to grow at a CAGR of 42.5 per cent, reaching $750 million by 2029. With the ability to process exponentially large datasets, simulate molecular structures, and identify subtle diagnostic signals at unprecedented speed, quantum technology is poised to redefine the limits of precision medicine.

Limitations of current diagnostic capabilities

• Multi-omics overload: A full human genome alone contains 3 billion base pairs, generating hundreds of gigabytes of raw data per individual. When proteomic and metabolomic data are layered on top, the resulting datasets quickly reach petabyte scales, overwhelming traditional computing systems and slowing the ability to process, store, and analyse this information efficiently

• Imaging strain: AI-driven medical imaging generates petabytes of data, straining storage and processing. High-resolution MRI and CT scans outpace the classical GPU capabilities, creating bottlenecks

• Siloed systems: Lab tests, medical imaging, and clinical records are often managed in disconnected systems, slowing diagnosis, duplicating effort, and diluting insights

New market areas for quantum value zone

The potential applications of quantum computing in diagnostics span a wide spectrum. Here are the most impactful ones:

• Pre-symptomatic disease detection: Quantum-enhanced analytics can identify subtle, pre-symptomatic signals across genomics, imaging, and lifestyle data before conventional thresholds are met. This accelerates the window for preventive action when interventions can most alter disease trajectories