WHO target product profiles to shape global research and development

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Health Product Development
• Global Health Equity

Background:

• New health products are crucial for global well-being, but development often neglects diseases affecting vulnerable populations.
• Coordination and prioritization are needed to align research and investment with genuine end-user needs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the World Health Organization's (WHO) target product profile (TPP) development process.
• To highlight the benefits of using TPPs to guide health product research and development (R&D).
• To encourage the use of TPPs to address unmet public health needs.

Main Methods:

• The study outlines the methodology for creating WHO TPPs, which define essential characteristics for new health products.
• It references the WHO Target Product Profile Directory, an online database of desired product characteristics.

Main Results:

• WHO TPPs provide a framework for R&D, integrating access and equity from the project's inception.
• The TPP Directory serves as a resource for defining product specifications aligned with public health priorities.

Conclusions:

• Implementing WHO TPPs can better coordinate R&D efforts and incentivize investment in neglected health areas.
• Sharing TPPs for unmet needs is crucial for achieving global health targets and improving worldwide well-being.