World Vision UK has welcomed GlaxoSmithKline’s decision to slash drug prices for the developing world, but also point out that profits must be ploughed into primary healthcare and HIV knowledge to save the most lives.

Upon welcoming new GSK boss Andrew Witty’s strategy for helping the poorest countries, World Vision stressed that the 20% of profits promised by GSK for health services must be invested in primary health care targeted at the poorest.

World Vision’s Director of Advocacy, Michael French, said –

‘This is a gutsy move in a commercial world. Witty has demonstrated a willingness to make saving lives a corporate goal along with making money. He has raised the bar by acknowledging that pharmaceuticals have a key role to play in changing the culture around the basic right to healthcare. We would now like to see other big pharmaceuticals follow suit.’

9.2million children under the age of five die avoidable deaths each year, mostly through families not being able to afford necessary medicines. Slashing drug prices is a vital starting point, as is pooling scientific knowledge. A large and growing body of research indicates that comprehensive provision of appropriate health services in the community will make a big difference to the lives of the poor as many children died simply because they didn’t have access to basic medical care.

There are 2 million children living with HIV worldwide, but less than 10% have access to medicine that can help them to stay alive.

Help World Vision UK with a Charity Gift

You can also help raise funds with the World Vision Must Have Gifts scheme, giving you the chance to buy an unusual and thoughtful gift whilst also helping poor communities.

From as little as £14 you could provide 5 chickens to create food and eggs for families in Sri Lanka, whilst for £45 you can purchase a Llama for a village in Bolivia.

You will also receive a greetings card with your fantastic gift, which is a great way to put something back into the world whilst also giving your friends and family a real conversation starter.

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