Traditional engineering is concerned with the application of scientific and mathematics to design and analyze, to manufacture objects and structures to improve human conditions. Bioengineers use the same concepts of science and mathematics to understand to performance of living organisms in the normal and abnormal situations then design structures and objects to enhance the performance of the human body.
Bioengineering is engineering that is applied to human health. Because human health is complex and deals with all aspects of our bodies, not just the physical aspects bio- engineers are concerned with all aspects and a wide range of problems that affect the body. The work and research of bioengineers impact all aspects of our lives, from better hospital care, diagnosis and treatment of diseases, the invention of devices to deliver better health care to the development of safer food and water sources.
Bioengineering encompasses many areas, but the common thread that runs through the various field is the application of the sciences especially biology and mathematics. The mission of all disciplines of bioengineering is to: the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of disease, patient rehabilitation, and the improvement of health. Bioengineers are responsible for the development of artificial hips, knees, and other joints; ultra sound, MRI, and other imaging techniques; pacemakers, dialysis machines; drug delivery systems, digital hearing aids, implantable defibrillators, artificial heart valves, a laser system for eye surgery, a devise used by diabetic that delivers and regulates insulin. The findings from research in genetics are used to inform doctors to detect and treat genetic diseases, and more recently the trials in tissue growth and transplant that will be used for tissue repair and replacement.
As with the work of other engineers, the work of bioengineers is not always seen by the public. The work of the social engineer, the mechanical and structural is concerned with developing gadgets, bridges, roads, and buildings to improve the living conditions of humans. Bioengineers are also concerned in improving agricultural product, developing new and better varieties of crops, and also finding better, faster, and safer ways to get the products to market. This practice of producing genetically altered plants is not without a debate. Some critics call this redesigning nature. The claim is that these grains, fruits and vegetables that are being implanted with genes from viruses, bacteria, and animals will permanently reconfigure these original plants.
Bioengineering is a field that encompasses a number of specialties. These include biomedical engineering, biotechnology, biological engineering, bimolecular engineering, biomechanics and biochemical engineering. Each of these fields may differ slightly in their focus of interest, but they are all concerned with the improvement of human life.