Are Profits More Important Than Cures?

By Bob Aronson

A Treatment for Almost Everything but Few Vaccines & Even Fewer Cures — Why?

Fair and balanced journalism is a very nice catch phrase but the stated goal is more than illusive, it is almost non-existent and that’s because there are never just two sides to a story.  There are often several sides so no matter how hard a reporter might try to be objective, there is no way you can cover every angle.  I do not pretend that this post is the endeavor of an investigative journalist, nor do I contend that this is an objective report.  What I offer here represents some observations and a few links to help illuminate the information.  I hope you find it useful.

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the average life expectancy at the beginning of the 20th century was just over 47 years. A century later, that number had increased to nearly 78 years, due largely to the development of vaccinations and other treatments for deadly diseases.  We are living longer because medical science has provided us with treatments, medications, devices and surgeries that cure little but keep most threatening diseases at bay…and often at a phenomenal cost.

As a communications consultant specializing in healthcare I have worked with several pharmaceutical companies.  I know many researchers and I am aware of the dedication they bring to their jobs and to providing help to patients.  I know, too, how expensive it is to develop new drugs and all too often I have seen those efforts fail resulting in the loss of millions of hard-earned investor dollars.  In short, I have at least a passing acquaintance with the pharmaceutical industry and the financial risks they take to bring new drugs, treatments, procedures and devices to the marketplace.

At the same time I also understand the desire and the necessity to be profitable.  Without profitability no business can survive.  It is only fair to point out that the pharmaceutical industry (Big Pharma) has been incredibly profitable, despite the investments and even the losses.

Here is the list of the five biggest pharmaceutical companies based on 2010 revenues, in billions of dollars.

1.Pfizer                                                        $58,523,