Gov`t to spend 15 bln won to research treatment for tumors, arthritis

SEOUL, Oct. 26 (Yonhap) -- The government said Sunday it will inject 15 billion won (US$10.4 million) over the next five years into research funds to help local scientists combat some of the most common diseases afflicting South Koreans.

The Ministry of Education, Science and Technology said the project calls for 3
billion won to be allocated each year to help discover new drugs capable of
treating tumors, arthritis and vascular diseases -- three of the nine most common
ailments afflicting Koreans and people around the world.
According to a World Health Organization survey, various tumors kill 7 million
people around the world each year. Nearly 500,000 people in South Korea suffer
from arthritis, which has become increasingly prevalent as its citizens live
longer lives.
Vascular diseases are also becoming a greater health risk worldwide as people eat
more protein and get less exercise.
"The support that will be given gives greater leeway to chief researchers than
past funds, and is designed from the outset to create ideal working conditions
for finding treatments," a government official said.
The government will decide on two other diseases next year that researchers will
target, he said. A total of 28 new types of medication are to be developed by
local scientists by 2016, with 210 billion won in research and development
support coming from the government.
yonngong@yna.co.kr
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