Health Research: Scientific Research for the People

Demographic change represents a great challenge for research. This applies particularly to health research. We want to ensure that Germany makes use of the opportunities offered by new scientific break-throughs: for example, findings in the life sciences concerning the causes of the most common diseases and ways to combat them. At the same time, ethical principles and scientific progress should be in harmony. Research is not a goal in itself - its results must benefit the people.

Innovations in health research contribute to enhancing the quality of life for people of all ages, women, men and children, and at the same time help to secure the financial viability of the health system. Health research is therefore of great significance. It is developing new or improved diagnostic procedures and therapies in order to help sick people more effectively.  And it is searching for new ways in the field of prevention to stop diseases from occurring altogether.

These Internet pages provide information on research topics and approaches under the German government's programme entitled "Health Research: Scientific Research for the People".

Prof. Dr. Annette Schavan
Federal Minister for Education and Research