How Federal Funds Keep America on the Cutting Edge of Medical Research
When I was in elementary school, my grandmother was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s. It was a different time in the mid-1990s—so few therapies were available that it felt as if we were helpless against the tides of the disease. But fast forward to today, and the landscape has transformed, providing families opportunities I could only dream of back then.
Pioneers in Medical Innovation
The catalyst? American-led healthcare and research innovations made possible by federal funding. The National Institutes of Health (NIH), the largest public grantor of biomedical research funding worldwide, awarded more than $47 billion in 2024 alone to propel advancements within U.S. shores. According to Valley News, these taxpayer-funded investments fuel discoveries that give those suffering from Alzheimer’s disease, and other ailments, more meaningful moments with their loved ones.
A Testament to American Ingenuity
Thanks to the NIH, breakthroughs continue not only in Alzheimer’s but in areas such as immunotherapy for cancer, treatment strategies for obesity, and innovations in drugs like Keytruda and Ozempic. With 99% of new FDA-approved drugs between 2010 and 2019 having links to NIH funding, federal investment has been integral to our healthcare ecosystem.
The Threat of Funding Cuts
Yet, the preservation of this innovative spirit is at risk. Recent political policies threaten to impede the progress fueled by NIH grants. The significance of these grants extends beyond medical advancements; they bolster the U.S. economy by creating nearly half a million stable jobs and offering a 150% return on taxpayer investments.
Securing America’s Health Leadership
Working at NIH-funded programs for a decade, I’ve seen firsthand the impact of these funds. They sustain America’s leading position in biomedical research globally—a leadership that is crucial for our historic role on the world stage. An “America First” strategy should prioritize these investments—not just for medical advancements but also for maintaining our competitive edge.
An Urgent Call to Action
The healthcare breakthroughs taking place fortify American competitiveness, support innovation, and secure jobs. The NIH does this while remaining free of racial, gender, or political bias in its grant allocation, focusing purely on merit. However, continued success depends on further taxpayer support and advocacy.
I implore every reader to stand by NIH. Engage your representatives, encourage awareness, and support an agenda that places American innovation and health at the forefront of our national priorities. This investment isn’t just in today but in the promise of continued American leadership in health and well-being tomorrow.
Will King is a research assistant studying cell biology and metabolism at Dartmouth College’s Geisel School of Medicine. These insights reflect his personal views.
