TDR Thirty Years On: Taking Stock and Envisioning the Future for the Special Programme for Research and Training in Tropical Diseases
2008

Review of the Special Programme for Research and Training in Tropical Diseases

Sample size: 250 publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Abdallah S. Daar, Susan Reynolds Whyte, Mohamed S. Abdullah, Ching-Li Hu, Stephen L. Hoffman, Martine Berger

Primary Institution: University of Toronto

Hypothesis

What is the future role of TDR in the changing landscape of global health?

Conclusion

TDR has been successful in the past but needs to adapt to remain relevant in the current global health environment.

Supporting Evidence

  • TDR has successfully built research capacity in disease-endemic countries.
  • TDR's funding for research has increased, but resources for research capacity strengthening have stagnated.
  • TDR has played a major role in developing new products for neglected diseases.
  • TDR's influence has waned due to increased competition and funding in global health.

Takeaway

TDR is an important organization that helps fight diseases in poor countries, but it needs to change to keep helping people effectively.

Methodology

The review involved qualitative data collection through interviews with over 250 stakeholders and analysis of previous reviews and documents.

Potential Biases

Potential bias due to the complex relationships and funding dynamics in global health.

Limitations

The review faced challenges in capturing the full breadth of TDR's accomplishments and the changing external landscape.

Participant Demographics

Participants included TDR staff, governing body members, and representatives from various health organizations and countries.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1371/journal.pntd.0000314

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