The Boston Globe reminds us that last week's journal articles about the importance of C-reactive protein in controlling heart disease had an under-reported angle.
The Globe reported: "Almost overlooked in all the publicity, however, were these facts: Both studies were underwritten by drug companies that make statins, the primary medicine for reducing C-reactive protein levels. Nine of the researchers in Cleveland and Boston also received speaking or consulting fees from statin makers, while three others work directly for the company that makes the best-selling statin, Lipitor. What's more, Brigham and Women's owns a limited patent on the inexpensive blood test for CRP, meaning the hospital and Dr. Paul Ridker, lead author of the Boston study, receive royalties every time a doctor checks CRP levels. If CRP becomes the new cholesterol, Brigham and Ridker stand to make millions."
In the Globe article, Harvard's John Abramson, author of "Overdo$ed America," said: "The problem is we're looking for health in the areas that generate the most profit, not looking for profits in the areas that generate the most health."
Posted by schwitz at January 16, 2005 03:51 PM