Lilly CEO calls for reform of research industry

Lilly's chairman, president and chief executive officer (CEO) Dr John Lechleiter has called for changes in the way the research-based pharmaceutical industry is operated in order to safeguard future growth.

Speaking in London at the Economist's 2011 Pharma Summit, the Lilly boss has called upon companies in the sector to adopt more collaborative, globalised and innovative research models in order to meet healthcare needs.

He pointed to the example of dementia, which costs the UK around 23 billion pounds a year, according to Alzheimer's Research Trust estimates.

Dr Lechleiter added that governments should also seek ways to reform public policy to ensure that innovation is promoted and rewarded.

"We must continually make the case for innovation through our words, but more importantly, through our actions and the value we bring to patients through innovative medicines," he added.

Earlier this month, Lilly entered into a collaboration with the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation to research new treatment options for type 1 diabetes.