International Federation of Pharmaceutical Manufacturers and Associations (IFPMA) has released 'Mental and Neurological Disorders (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.   

IFPMA represents the research-based pharmaceutical companies and associations across the globe. The research-based pharmaceutical industry’s 1.3 million employees research, develop and provide medicines and vaccines that improve the life of patients worldwide. Based in Geneva, IFPMA has official relations with the United Nations and contributes industry expertise to help the global health community find solutions that improve global health.