Core Viewpoint - The Gates Foundation aims to eradicate tuberculosis (TB) globally within the next 20 years, emphasizing the need for increased investment in research and development for diseases primarily affecting impoverished nations [3][4][5]. Group 1: Tuberculosis and Global Health Initiatives - Despite being rare in wealthy countries, TB remains prevalent in parts of South Africa, with the Gates Foundation supporting clinical trials for a new vaccine that could potentially eradicate the disease [2][19]. - Bill Gates highlighted the tragic reality that TB still caused 1.25 million deaths in 2023, attributing the lack of attention to the disease's prevalence in poor countries [3][4]. - The foundation plans to invest $200 billion over the next 20 years to significantly reduce mortality rates from various diseases, including TB, and to enhance health innovations [3][4]. Group 2: Achievements and Future Goals - The Gates Foundation has played a crucial role in reducing the incidence of diseases like HIV and malaria, saving millions of lives since the mid-1990s [4][5]. - The foundation aims to eliminate polio and malaria by 2045 and reduce TB and HIV mortality rates by 90% [4][5]. - Gates expressed confidence that child mortality could be halved by 2045, despite current challenges in public health funding [4][5]. Group 3: Challenges and Uncertainties - The reduction of international aid, particularly from the U.S., poses a significant threat to global health initiatives, potentially reversing progress made in combating diseases [5][6]. - There is uncertainty regarding whether partners in global health will continue to contribute generously or shift focus to domestic issues, which could have devastating consequences [6][7]. - The Gates Foundation's future effectiveness may depend on the ability to inspire new generations of philanthropists to continue its mission [8][28]. Group 4: Vaccine Development and Clinical Trials - A new TB vaccine, currently in Phase III trials, could significantly impact regions like sub-Saharan Africa, where existing vaccines are insufficient [18][19]. - The vaccine, developed by GSK, aims to reduce the incidence of active TB in adults and is fully funded by the Gates Foundation [18][19]. - The foundation's commitment to innovative vaccine development is seen as a critical strategy in addressing global health challenges [16][18].
仅凭一家基金会,能否改变人类命运?
财富FORTUNE·2025-08-19 14:03