Medical research is being cut because of the recession, a survey of charities reveals.
The survey by the Association of Medical Research Charities (AMRC) shows that over three quarters of the charities are being affected by the downturn.
More than a quarter intend to cut their research expenditure by up to 40% over the coming year.
In 2008/2009, AMRC members spent over £900m on medical and health research. It is predicted to drop significantly over the next two years. Many are exploring co-funding opportunities to mitigate the impact of the downturn.
The AMRC is calling on public and corporate donors and the government to support medical research charities.
Norman Barrett, of the Association for International Cancer Research, said: “The cost of funding a research grant to try to improve the prevention, detection and treatment of cancer has gone up by 20% over the last three years, while legacies and regular donations have fallen by 5%.
“We are very concerned about the impact of the economic climate on our ability to make progress against cancer.”
Read more on the economic benefits of medical research.
Tags: Research
