• Publication contains recommendations for governments and other stakeholders to address MNDs
• Research in this disease area is complex, time-consuming, and needs to be incentivized
• Launch coincides with World Mental Health Day to raise awareness on the burden of mental and neurological disorders on society

Today the International Federation of Pharmaceutical Manufacturers and Associations (IFPMA) released MNDs: Innovative therapies, innovative collaborations, a publication outlining policy recommendations for further research and to address the growing burden of MNDs on populations worldwide. In releasing this publication, industry encourages governments and other stakeholders to consider the social and economic impact of these disorders beyond the health sector.

Many mental and neurological disorders are not very well understood, which stifles diagnosis, and poses a challenge to innovating breakthrough medicines. This presents an important and urgent priority for the global health community, including the research-based pharmaceutical industry, governments, the World Health Organization (WHO), patient groups, and other stakeholders.

“Our companies have made substantial investments and progress towards deepening the understanding of how the brain works,” said Eduardo Pisani, IFPMA Director General. “Many research challenges remain, and more innovation is clearly needed both in and beyond the labs to address this growing health priority.”

The release of this publication coincides with World Mental Health Day on 10 October 2012. This year’s theme is of “Depression: A Global Crisis.” According to the WHO, mental and neurological disorders are responsible for 13% of the global disease burden. Depression alone affects more than 350 million people and will become the largest cause of disease in the world by 2030. MNDs: Innovative Therapies, Innovative Collaborations explains industry’s current efforts and highlights collaborative ways to go forward.

Geneva, 10 October 2012

About IFPMA

IFPMA represents the innovative pharmaceutical industry at the international level, engaging in official relations with the United Nations and multilateral organizations. Our vision is to ensure that scientific progress translates into the next generation of medicines and vaccines that deliver a healthier future for people everywhere.

To achieve this, we act as a trusted partner, bringing our members' expertise to champion pharmaceutical innovation, drive policy that supports the research, development, and delivery of health technologies, and create sustainable solutions that advance global health.

ifpma.org

Media Contact

Elliot Dunster e.dunster@ifpma.org