IFPMA gives details of developing country programs

The International Federation of Pharmaceutical Manufacturers and Associations has published its 2008 edition of an on-line database of 155 long-term programs involving research-based drugmakers to improve treatments against specific diseases. The newly-released data shows an increase of 20 projects versus the previous year.

Schemes targeting HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis and malaria now number 82, up from 78 last year, the IFPMA said. Harvey Bale, the group's director general, said: "industry's partnership effort is...responsive to emerging needs, as shown through the increase in programs to improve the health of women and children and to address the growing threat of chronic disease in developing countries."

Dr Bale added that the programs are proven to be "effective and resilient," giving the example of the Global Alliance to Eliminate Lymphatic Filariasis, which is supported by UK-headquartered drug giant GlaxoSmithKline and the US major Merck & Co.