The conflict between effective and affordable health care--a perspective from the developing world

The recent introduction of recombinant FSH into the clinical management of patients suffering from infertility appears to be associated with several treatment benefits when compared with urinary human menopausal gonadotrophin. However, from the perspective of the developing world the associated increase in cost is a cause for concern--particularly if the "cheaper" urinary gonadotrophins are no longer marketed. The need for infertility care in Africa is significant, but health resources are very limited. The commonest cause of infertility in Africa is tubal disease, so that assisted reproductive techniques, and therefore exogenous gonadotrophins, are central to effective management. The conflict between affordable and effective health care is addressed.