We have heard this claim a few times over the years. Drug discovery and development is much harder today because we have solved all of the simple problems. This quote is most recently shared by Paul Stoffels, head of drug R&D for JnJ, in a posting at the WSJ Health Blog earlier this week.
"All simple diseases have been solved", says Stoffels, in the context of describing the need for industry to look beyond their own walls for answers.
I agree with the conclusion -- pharma must partner to solve their current challenges. Partner with academia, and even with others in industry.
But is it true that we have solved all of the simple diseases? Or will history prove that we are still at the tip of a much bigger iceberg?
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