Hydrogen and Health: Updates on Medical Research and Applications as of September 2025

Hydrogen, the simplest and most abundant element in the universe, is emerging not only as a potential energy source but also as a promising tool for health support and medical treatment. In recent years, clinical studies and research in the United States, Japan, and the European Union (EU) have increasingly highlighted hydrogen’s positive role in improving health, supporting treatment of chronic conditions, and enhancing the body’s recovery capacity.

1. Medical Applications of Hydrogen in the United States

In the U.S., clinical studies have focused on the effects of hydrogen-rich water on overall health. A clinical trial in Salt Lake City examined the combination of hydrogen water and cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) for the treatment of panic disorder. Results indicated that hydrogen supplementation helped reduce anxiety, depression, and stress in patients.

Additionally, 2025 studies have demonstrated that hydrogen water supports post-exercise recovery, reduces inflammation, and protects cells. Individuals who consumed hydrogen water showed a 15% increase in endurance and 20% faster recovery compared to the control group, confirming its potential in daily health maintenance and preventive medicine.

2. Research and Applications in Japan

Japan has been at the forefront of clinical research on hydrogen, especially in cancer treatment. At the Tamana Medical Center, colorectal cancer patients in stage IV inhaled hydrogen gas for three hours daily, resulting in improved prognosis and increased survival rates.

Moreover, health-focused workshops and events in Japan, such as the “Vietnam–Japan Hydrogen Workshop 2025,” have explored hydrogen’s role in wellness and healthcare. These gatherings connect international experts to advance research and practical applications of hydrogen, from supporting chronic disease management to enhancing the health of the elderly.

3. Initiatives and Research in the European Union (EU)

In Europe, hydrogen research and innovation events are held annually. The European Hydrogen Week 2025, held from September 29 to October 3 in Brussels, included the EU Hydrogen Innovation Forum, focusing on health and medical research related to hydrogen. Additionally, the EU Research and Innovation Days on November 24–25, 2025, continue to promote clinical projects, technological advancements, and potential healthcare applications of hydrogen.

EU-funded projects, including multi-billion-euro initiatives, underscore a strong commitment to developing hydrogen not only for energy but also for medical purposes, offering significant opportunities for research and public health applications.

Conclusion

Hydrogen is proving to be an important element in healthcare, from supporting cancer therapy and mental health treatment to enhancing physical recovery. Research from the U.S., Japan, and the EU has clarified biological mechanisms and advanced practical applications, offering safe and effective approaches to health maintenance. Given the current pace of research and investment, hydrogen is likely to become a vital tool in preventive medicine and disease management in the near future.