Development of contraceptives - obstacles and opportunities

Article Abstract:

Despite the preeminence of the United States in many field of research, US research on contraceptives has lagged behind that of other nations. In a report released on February 14, 1990, the National Research Council's Committee on Contraceptive Development reviewed the need for further development and made recommendations for contraceptive research. Virtually all current contraceptives have shortcomings, and none meet the needs of teenagers, women over 35 who smoke, breast-feeding women, and women on certain other types of medication. Better contraceptives are not being actively pursued in the US, despite the direct improvement that such methods would have on the quality of life, not only for US women, but even more for women in developing countries, where risks of pregnancy are greater and the pressures for family planning more compelling. With one exception, US pharmaceutical companies have abandoned research efforts in contraceptives, at least partially because the limited profit does not justify the expense of protection against liability actions. Private foundations are not taking up the slack, and federal programs are not providing for a pool of investigators with serious interest in reproductive biology. In addition, the FDA has traditionally viewed the contraceptive user as a healthy individual, thereby disenfranchising some would-be users with medical conditions. The committee recommends approving contraceptives with risks if it can be shown that the benefits outweigh the risks for certain groups when compared with those groups' other contraceptive practices. The committee does not doubt that the development of better contraceptive methods benefits the public interest. However, unless steps are taken to ensure funding, appropriate legal protection and regulation, and adequate research in basic reproductive biology, contraception in the United States will remain unchanged. (Consumer Summary produced by Reliance Medical Information, Inc.)

Laws, regulations and rules, Contraception, Contraceptives, Birth control

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Cardiovascular medicine at the turn of the millenium: triumphs, concerns, and opportunities

Article Abstract:

Cardiovascular disease will likely become the leading cause of death worldwide by 2020, even as significant advances in the understanding and treatment of the disease are made. Despite valuable research, many patients with cardiovascular disease have no known risk factors, and established treatments do not substantially reduce deaths. Research into the cellular, biochemical and genetic aspects of cardiovascular disease and a broader application of prevention and treatment strategies may help reduce cardiovascular illnesses.

Analysis, Cardiovascular diseases, Coronary heart disease, Cardiology

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Paving the way - Providing opportunities for Native American students

Article Abstract:

Native American students are reported to be facing great difficulty in pursuing a medical career, and so guidance is provided by the Four Directions Summer Research Program to motivate Native American participants to join the medical profession. The need for Native American faculty members is also emphasized to conduct research on the healthcare requirements of their community.

United States, Education, Native Americans, Vocational guidance, Native American studies

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