Dive Brief:
- Thomson Reuters has issued a report analyzing the pros and cons of conducting clinical trials in the BRIC (Brazil, Russia, India, China) countries.
- The major benefits of conducting trials in BRIC countries are having access to a population of 30 million potential subjects near major cities, and cost-effectiveness.
- Challenges include a rapidly changing regulatory landscape and shifting healthcare dynamics.
Dive Insight:
According to a new report from Thomson Reuters, there are opportunities in the BRIC countries to conduct clinical research in a cost-effective way. There are approximately 30 million potential subjects in the major BRIC city centers, as well as well-educated, well-trained healthcare professionals. And as clinical trial research grows, more manufacturing facilities and labs will be opened.
On the downside, the situation surrounding regulations and healthcare provision are rapidly shifting in the BRIC countries. The only country where the number of trials has increased is China. Even so, there are challenges there that also stymie the drug-development process. The takeaway: Researchers agree that the potential benefits outweigh the challenges of conducting more clinical trials in the BRIC countries, however, it is important to be aware of the challenges.