Gates Foundation promises $ 2.5 billion to research on women’s health

The Gates Foundation said on Monday that it undertakes to invest $ 2.5 billion over the next five years to accelerate research and development in the neglected women’s health areas.

Funding will be channeled around five priority research areas which are particularly important for low and intermediate income countries. Among the investment objectives are contraception, maternal health, obstetric care, maternal immunization and sexually transmitted infections.

“This is the biggest investment that we have ever made in women’s research and development of women, but it is still far from what is necessary in a neglected and under-funding field of human needs and opportunities,” said in a statement Anita Zaidi, president of the sex equality division of the Gates Foundation.

Health conditions that mainly or disproportionate women have long been neglected. The lack of investment often slows the necessary research so that biotechnology companies develop new drugs, leaving common disorders such as endometriosis, polycystic ovary syndrome and preeclampsia without good treatment options.

The Gates Foundation has highlighted non -hormonal contraception, the treatment of preeclampsia and research on the vaginal microbiome as areas of “breakthrough potential”.

Part of the investment will also go to the collection and advocacy of supporting data when the products are approved for the market.

According to a report by McKinsey Health Institute, the Sex Health Commission could increase the global economy by $ 1 Billion per year by 2040.

“This commitment draws the essential attention to health challenges that women face in places where resources are the most limited and the burden is the highest. He reflects recognition that the life of women – and the innovations that support them – must have priority everywhere, “said Bosede Afolabi, professor of obstetrics and gynecology at the College of Medicine at the University of Lagos, in a statement provided by the substance.

The Gates Foundation also urges the public and private sectors to co-invest in “Women’s health innovations” [to] Help shape product development and ensure access to treatments for women and girls who need it most. »»

“We cannot do this alone,” said Ru-Fong Cheng, director of women’s health innovation at the Gates Foundation, in an email at Biopharma Dive. “Responding to the health needs of all women will require more co-investment in the private sector, investors, philanthropy and others. It is so important because when we improve the results for women’s health, not only do they have the opportunity to live more complete lives, but we can also strengthen families, communities and entire economies. ”

While private investments in women’s health research has increased in the United States, the field faces threats of funding reductions, federal layoffs and new policies that worry doctors, researchers and other experts.

The new engagement of the Gates Foundation is also designed to support the 2045 objectives of the organization, which aim to end the avoidable death of mothers and infants.