America’s exceptionalism is exemplified by our rich heritage of scientific exploration and breakthroughs. Thanks to the National Institutes of Health (NIH) investments, 90% of children diagnosed with the most common form of leukemia this year are expected to be cured. Those born with cystic fibrosis, once a grim diagnosis, can now anticipate long and fulfilling lives. The likelihood of death from cancer has decreased by 34% in the last 30 years, showcasing the impact of NIH-funded research on various conditions including heart disease, Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s, and diabetes. This funding not only spurs medical advancements but also fosters hope for countless patients.
However, proposed cuts to NIH funding, amounting to at least $4 billion annually, pose a threat to this progress. As leaders in prominent medical research centers and physician-researchers ourselves, we are alarmed by the immediate and profound repercussions these reductions may have on patients and their families, as well as the lasting consequences on our nation’s ability to achieve future medical breakthroughs.
The collaboration between public and private universities in conducting medical and scientific research, predominantly supported by federally-funded grants since the post-World War II era, has been a cornerstone of our success. This partnership attracts top-tier healthcare professionals, scientists, and students, propelling our capability to drive innovations in the medical field. Additionally, this system proves to be highly efficient, as the government shares only a portion of the research facility’s operational costs, rather than investing in independent facilities and staff.
These proposed funding slashes would retract billions of dollars pledged for ongoing biomedical research projects, jeopardizing crucial operations, equipment maintenance, and cutting-edge technology that contribute to groundbreaking discoveries. The potential disruption could lead to the cessation of clinical trials, halting of experiments, closure of labs, and the loss of skilled staff members. Patients enrolled in trials for conditions like hypertension, heart disease, Alzheimer’s, and cancer would be directly impacted, delaying progress and hindering advancements in treatment options.
In clinical trials, discontinuing funding would leave patients with no options or hope. Our establishments are dedicated to maintaining the trust of our communities, patients, and taxpayers. We are prepared to cooperate with the administration to strengthen the partnership between government and research institutions, which has greatly benefited our country. Rather than hindering critical research and patient care, let’s address the burdensome regulations and extensive bureaucracy that hinder progress in research and discovery. Instead of abruptly disrupting a system that has been beneficial, we should find common ground and continue the collaboration that has saved numerous lives. These proposed cuts will hinder progress rather than advance it. Robert A. Harrington, MD, serves as the dean of Weill Cornell Medicine and provost for Medical Affairs at Cornell University.
