Media releases

Many of the diseases that affect the most disadvantaged populations across the world are conditions known collectively as neglected diseases. Including conditions that claim millions of lives each year – dengue, diarrhoeal diseases and rheumatic fever – these diseases have received relatively little funding, attention and profile compared to many of the common chronic conditions that affect high income countries.

Australian research has confirmed substantial under treatment of patients who are at risk of cardiovascular disease. The new research shows that up to 70% of patients who are at a high risk of a heart attack or stroke in the next 5 years aren’t receiving the care required to prevent these conditions. Findings also show that 50% of older patients who have had a heart attack or stroke aren’t receiving the care or treatments they need to prevent a second attack.

According to national guidelines, the best care for acute lower back pain is simple: stay active, avoid bed rest and take regular simple analgesics such as paracetamol. However new research has found that only 20% of patients receive this simple treatment approach. Instead many are referred for unnecessary imaging and prescribed more complex medicines such as ibuprofen.

Key findings of the second G-FINDER report, an annual survey of investment into neglected disease R&D, were launched today in New Delhi, India. These show global funding for neglected disease R&D ground to a standstill in 2008.