Quantum computing has immense potential to transform a plethora of industries. Leveraging knowledge of quantum mechanics, quantum computers perform computations more efficiently than classical computers (Kim, 2025). Classical computers represent data in bits, as either a 0 or 1, whereas quantum computers store data in qubits, which utilize the unique property of superposition. This quantum principle allows qubits to exist in multiple states concurrently until observed. This allows qubits to hold and process more information at once than traditional bits, expediting processing speed in quantum computers (Memon et al., 2024). Quantum computers offer several computational advantages that are promising for the improvement of medical research and development, artificial intelligence, surveillance, and encryption. Governments and organizations have the responsibility to construct ethical guidelines and regulations for its implementation and use (Ajala et al., 2024).

Quantum computing could significantly advance pharmaceutical and medical research, as well as imaging. Biomarker discovery could be expedited by quantum computer algorithms that can analyze a larger quantity of complex data in a shorter time span. For instance, Polaris Quantum Biotech has employed quantum computing for drug discovery, particularly to find drug candidates in the wake of COVID-19, demonstrating the technology’s potential (Jeyaraman et al., 2024). Quantum computing’s capacity to simulate complex chemical structures can enhance the precision of imaging techniques, which could improve the accuracy and speed of disease detection. This capability is especially valuable in oncology, where effective treatment is contingent on early diagnosis. Ongoing research from Google’s Quantum AI team suggests that through advanced pattern recognition quantum computers can accelerate early cancer cell identification (Chow, 2025). The development and testing of new drugs could be significantly hastened by quantum computers since they can efficiently analyze large databases of compounds (Jeyaraman et al., 2024).

Quantum computing technologies can be used in encryption algorithms to reinforce cybersecurity. Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) utilizes quantum entanglement, a principle in which two particles share correlated states, to distribute highly secure encryption keys. QKD can also detect eavesdropping, as any attempt to measure the quantum states introduces detectable disturbances in the correlations between the particles. This allows for effective detection of potential security breaches (Ajala et al., 2024).

Quantum computing has the potential to enhance the fields of finance and banking. Although its application in these areas is not yet widespread, the immense computational demands faced by financial institutions present a promising opportunity for quantum technologies to optimize complex modeling, risk assessment, and data analysis processes (Memon et al., 2024). Artificial intelligence powered by quantum computing offers superior capabilities in fraud detection, investment strategy development, and risk assessment, making it a highly valuable commodity for financial institutions (Boretti, 2024).

New cryptographic standards must be prioritized in the wake of quantum computing, as the technology presents a significant threat to traditional cryptography, yet can also enable new encryption methods to counteract it. Governments and organizations must work to build a quantum-resilient infrastructure for critical sites before quantum computers are publicly available (Ajala et al., 2024). Projections indicate that classical encryption systems are likely to be compromised by quantum computers within the next 20 years, namely the RSA and ECC (Sodiya et al., 2024). In response, the world’s leading countries in quantum technology development have begun to develop regulatory initiatives, most notably the European Union’s hybrid cryptography initiative (Kim, 2025).

There are, however, risks to the implementation of quantum computers. While quantum computers can enhance encryption algorithms, they also serve as a double-edged sword, with rapid decryption posing a threat to traditional encryption methods. Shor’s algorithm is a mathematical model that can efficiently factor large composite numbers by finding the smallest repeating cycle in a mathematical function. This process, which is computationally intensive for classical computers, becomes manageable on a quantum computer due to its ability to process multiple possibilities simultaneously (Magnusson, 2025). 

Factorization is a fundamental process in decryption techniques, and could be exponentially faster by utilizing Shor’s algorithm with quantum computers (Ajala et al., 2024). Ethically, quantum computers could cause mass job displacement, which could have severe economic impacts and would necessitate mass retraining protocols. Additionally, because of the high cost of producing quantum technology, limiting access to quantum computing to the wealthy could exacerbate socioeconomic patterns (Boretti, 2024).

In order to fully realize quantum computing’s potential, it is essential not only to advance the technology itself but to also engage the public in understanding its promise. Public outreach is necessary to ensure informed discussions about the opportunities and challenges posed by quantum computing. Media representation of quantum computing development and potential plays a critical role in public perception. Government communication also influences how emerging technologies are framed and prioritized. A study of government websites regarding quantum computing from Canada, the United States, Germany, and India revealed that these governments tend to underemphasize the potential of quantum computers to influence society (Suter et al., 2024).

Quantum computing undoubtedly has immense potential to advance healthcare research, medical diagnosis, encryption techniques, finance, and artificial intelligence, although it could lead to job displacement, intensification of socioeconomic divisions, and a threat to cybersecurity. The rise in casual conversations about quantum computing may also stimulate more discussion, increase demand for, and encourage greater specialization in quantum mechanics education (Wheatley, 2024). Its transformative potential holds promise to open new frontiers in science and technology. As advancements in quantum computing occur, cognizance of the technology’s potential societal impact grows increasingly relevant to understanding its significance, applications, and necessary regulations. With continued research and thoughtful implementation, quantum computing is poised to bring unprecedented progress.

References:

[1] Ajala, O. A., Arinze, C. A., Ofodile, O. C., Okoye, C. C., & Daraojimba, A. I. (2024). Exploring and reviewing the potential of quantum computing in enhancing cybersecurity encryption methods. Magna Scientia Advanced Research and Reviews, 10(01), 321-329.

[2] Boretti, A. (2024). Technical, economic, and societal risks in the progress of artificial intelligence driven quantum technologies. Discover Artificial Intelligence, 4(1), 67.

[3] Chow, J. C. L. (2024). Quantum Computing in Medicine. Medical Sciences, 12(4), 67. https://doi.org/10.3390/medsci12040067

[4] Jeyaraman, N., Jeyaraman, M., Yadav, S., Ramasubramanian, S., & Balaji, S. (2024). Revolutionizing healthcare: the emerging role of quantum computing in enhancing medical technology and treatment. Cureus, 16(8).

[5] Kim, H. H. I. (2025). Ethical and Security Implications of Quantum Computing: A Systematic Review.

[6] Magnusson Landström, N. (2025). Understanding Shor’s Algorithm and its Impact on Quantum Computing and Modern Cryptography.

[7] Memon, Q. A., Al Ahmad, M., & Pecht, M. (2024). Quantum computing: navigating the future of computation, challenges, and technological breakthroughs. Quantum Reports, 6(4), 627-663.

[8] Sodiya, E. O., Umoga, U. J., Amoo, O. O., & Atadoga, A. (2024). Quantum computing and its potential impact on US cybersecurity: A review: Scrutinizing the challenges and opportunities presented by quantum technologies in safeguarding digital assets. Global Journal of Engineering and Technology Advances, 18(02), 049-064.

[9] Suter, V., Ma, C., Poehlmann, G., Meckel, M., & Steinacker, L. (2024). An integrated view of Quantum Technology? Mapping media, business, and policy narratives. arXiv preprint arXiv:2408.02236.

[10] Wheatley, M. C. (2024). Quantum Shifts: The Societal Implications of Quantum Computing on Security, Privacy, and the Economy. Journal of Computer Science, 1, 100002.