Ronald Reagan

“ Today, America's medical researchers are studying the basic workings of cells and organisms in ever finer detail. Someday, these inquiries into the fundamental aspects of life may unravel the mysteries of cancer, AIDS, Alzheimer's disease, heart and lung diseases, mental illnesses, and many other diseases that claim or severely impair the lives of Americans. To fulfill the promise of current investigations and to ensure that the caliber of American medical research remains high, it is imperative that the United States continue to foster the training of the scientists of the future. ”

“ America's preeminence in biomedical and behavioral medical research is greatly encouraged by more than a century of continuing commitment by the Government of the United States. For example, this year marks the 100th anniversary of the National Institutes of Health, our Nation's largest biomedical research agency. The returns from the cooperative efforts of the Federal government and the private sector in medical research-in terms of reduced illness and improved individual productivity for many Americans-are immense. ”

“ Now, vaccines developed through biomedical research have virtually eliminated these killers from the United States. In addition to their contributions to the creation of these and many other vaccines, U.S. medical researchers have designed new drugs and surgical techniques and identified environmental and life-style factors that lead to illness. All of these advances have helped to bring America's death rate to an all-time low and its life expectancy rates to all-time highs.
America is an acknowledged world leader in promoting health and preventing disease and disability. ”