Perspectives from Eli Lilly’s CEO
I just came across an interview last week in the Indianapolis Star with Eli Lilly and Company CEO John Lechleiter. It’s a q-and-a that is particularly interesting because Mr. Lechleiter shares his perspectives on, among other topics, the greatest challenges facing the pharmaceutical industry and the future of innovation in the United States.
I encourage Prognosis readers to check out the full article, but here are a few of Mr. Lechleiter’s illuminating quotes:
On progress against cancer…
“Many people who study the treatment of cancer today believe that, for some types of cancer, we may be able to keep patients sort of static. While the cancer may not be cured, it is not progressing, and the patient is able to do better for longer periods of time.”
On China as a marketplace…
“We see much evidence of progress…if we look at all the things that have been done within China to modernize the health system and healthcare delivery….We see China emerging as the second-leading pharmaceutical market probably by the end of this decade.”
On how the U.S. can remain a leader in innovation…
“We’re falling behind with respect to science and math aptitude among grade school, high school students. We also need to expand the number of visas…to non-U.S. citizens who want to stay in this country and work in these high-tech industries and startup companies. And we need sustained investment by the U.S. government in basic research.”
