The new European data legislation or GDPR requires a balance between the needs of the many and the needs of the individual.

The benefits and risks of using personal data splits opinion particularly within the medical research sector. 

'Big data' can digest previously unimaginable quantities of information and uncovers previously-unforeseen patterns.  On the one hand, it may address the challenges posed by chronic conditions such as heart disease or cancers. But, the way forward is less clear.