Why China is now the world’s number two power in new drug development
China has become the world’s second-largest force in new drug development, with domestic drugs under research now accounting for more than a fifth of the global total, according to Guo Yanhong, deputy head of the National Health Commission.
Chinese pharmaceutical companies have launched a series of innovative medicines, including advanced anti-cancer drugs that were once the exclusive domain of Western firms, over the past few years. One of the most prominent examples is Zanubrutinib, a cancer treatment developed in China that has now been approved for use in multiple countries around the world, Xinhua reports.
China’s progress is not limited to pharmaceuticals. Its domestic industry has also delivered impressive breakthroughs in medical technology. Officials emphasise the successful development of a photon-counting CT scanner, which produces images at much higher resolution while exposing patients to less radiation.
At the same time, Chinese engineers have designed surgical robots that improve precision in operations and reduce trauma for patients. Other technologies, such as artificial hearts, ECMO machines, and heavy-ion therapy systems, have also been rolled out in hospitals across the country.
China is also achieving results in a new therapy for immunotherapy-resistant metastatic colorectal cancer, developed under a national science and technology program. The therapy has dramatically increased treatment response rates and extended survival times.
According to Guo, the therapy has produced the best outcomes internationally in this field.
Meanwhile, the United States remains the global leader in innovative new drug development, with a proven track record in the number of approved drugs and clinical trials.
This story is written and edited by the Global South World team, you can contact us here.
