Each year the World Health Organization (WHO) Executive Board provides global leaders with a key platform to discuss and prepare for the most pressing health challenges facing the world. The WHO EB helps facilitate collaboration, policy development and strategic planning to strengthen global health systems. 

A central theme of this year’s session is the prevention and control of non-communicable diseases (NCDs). From groundbreaking cancer therapies to advanced technologies for diabetes management, tackling NCDs requires continuous innovation. With the support of intellectual property (IP) protections, the world’s innovation ecosystem can provide new and novel treatments and preventative care. 

IP incentives and protections have been instrumental in turning novel ideas into life-saving solutions. These advancements extend to other critical NCDs, transforming the fight against oral health diseases and mental health disorders. For example:

• The introduction of dental sealants in the 1960s revolutionized preventive dentistry and oral health, significantly reducing cavities, especially in children and underserved populations. Over the years, IP protections have facilitated further innovation, leading to advancements in material science and application techniques that have kept sealants at the forefront of modern dentistry. One such breakthrough is the development of color-changing sealants, which improve precision during application and enhance long-term effectiveness.

   

• The development of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) marked a turning point in the treatment of depression and anxiety, transforming psychiatric care worldwide. Decades of research and clinical trials led to safer, more effective treatment options, dramatically improving the management of mood disorders. Crucially, IP protections played a key role in enabling the extensive research and investment required to bring these breakthroughs to market, as well as paved the way for ongoing advancements in psychopharmacology.

   

These advancements underscore the lasting impact of innovation in global health, as incentivizing innovation has not only brought new technologies forward but also spurred new learnings and further growth in ideation and invention. Strong IP protections create an environment where new ideas can flourish, be rigorously tested and reach those in need. This is especially critical in the fight against NCDs, where ongoing innovation is essential to developing new treatments and technologies. 

As the 156th WHO Executive Board convenes to shape the future of global health, fostering policies that support innovation is vital. By strengthening IP protections and investing in research, we can accelerate the development of and collaboration with new treatments and technologies, ensuring better health outcomes for future generations.