German pharma group argues case for innovation in preventing diseases of old age

In response to the recent Fritz Beske Institute's study of diseases of the future ('Morbidity Forecast 2050'), the German Association of Research-based Pharmaceutical Companies, the VFA, general manager, Cornelia Yzer, said that 'this new study is a stark illustration of the challenges posed by demographic change. But pharmaceutical research and innovation will play an ever greater part in alleviating or preventing diseases of old age.'

The VFA members have been intensifying their research into the principal diseases highlighted by the study for years. As a result, numerous treatments/drugs have emerged and are being tested on patients. 'Our companies could produce up to 14 new treatments for diabetes type 2 in the next four years; six for Alzheimer's and nine for strokes', said Mr Yzer. But the top priority for the VFA is improving cancer therapies. Almost every third drug project serves this purpose.' By 2013, there could be up to 12 new drugs for treating prostate cancer.

'Moreover, our companies are already working on drugs to be used from 2020 onwards. To this end, several laboratories specialising in Alzheimer's, diabetes and diseases of the heart/circulation have been established and are cooperating with existing research into these areas.'