In an effort to find traditional medical remedies for diseases
such as cancer and AIDS the Ministry of Science and Technology
announced yesterday that China is to invest 100 million yuan
(US$12.5 million) on the subject.
The money will go to 50 cooperative programs by the end of the
year and for the first time will include international
partnerships. They'll aim to develop new treatments for the likes
of neuroses and cardiovascular complaints, cancer and AIDS.
"The new project aims to modernize traditional medicines," said
Shang Yong, vice minister of science and technology.
According to Shang, a number of countries including the United
States, Japan and Singapore have expressed interest in the project.
"We'll lay out programs tailored for different regions," he
said.
As well as partnerships with countries which have access to
plentiful funds and human resources China will give technological
assistance to developing countries.
A good example of an alternative treatment is artemisinin, a
herbal medicine, regarded as the best treatment for malaria and
which is highly recommended to African countries.
"For Africa artemisinin is probably our first choice for
collaboration," said Jin Xiaoming, a senior official with the
ministry.
The official noted that by 2005 the country had traditional
Chinese medicines (TCMs) agreements with 70 countries which meant
confidence was high in regard to the project.
As well as finding cures for diseases the project also aims to
explore new markets for TCMs.
Shang expressed the wish that, "The project can promote the
market share of traditional medicines in the global healthcare
business."
It would also adhere to the government's previous vow that
companies should play the major role in innovation by promoting the
establishment of first-class joint clinical centers and
laboratories.
The ministry said a list of the 50 programs was still being
finalized. "Basic criteria include outstanding effectiveness and
use of technology," the official said.
The project also includes training for professional TCM doctors
and researchers and advocacy of knowledge about traditional
medicine.
An international office is also planned to coordinate the
project which is expected to attract both government and business
leaders.
World Health Organization statistics show that 75 countries have
established natural medicine administrations. And 51 countries have
produced policies to develop indigenous traditional medicines.
Acupuncture is legally accepted in a number of countries and the
export of TCMs has witnessed a steady growth in recent five years.
However, the use of TCMs remains a contentious issue in some parts
of the world due to a lack of understanding and shortage of new
products.
(China Daily July 5, 2006)