Biomedical Research Funding

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INTRODUCTION

A half century of investment by the United States Federal Government in biomedical research has dramatically advanced the health and improved the lives of the American people. Funding for the National Institutes of Health (NIH) specifically has had a significant impact on the United States’ global preeminence and development of a biomedical research enterprise that is unrivaled throughout the world. Biomedical research entails understanding how the body works and investigating how to enhance health and reduce disease. A vital field of study for understanding human health is endocrinology, which involves the investigation of hormones and the role they play in the body’s daily function. This includes research to help us understand how changes in hormones contribute to disease. Basic and clinical endocrine scientists funded by NIH conduct research that leads to the development of treatments for endocrine disorders and diseases including diabetes, some cancers, obesity, thyroid disorders, bone health, and infertility. These conditions affect millions of people in the United States and create a significant health and economic burden on society. The development and discovery of treatments for diabetes, obesity, cancer, cardiovascular disease, and others are available today, thanks to NIH funding.

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