Eli Lilly has consistently demonstrated its commitment to providing groundbreaking treatments across various therapeutic areas. With a significant focus on oncology, diabetes, immunology, obesity, and Alzheimer’s disease, Lilly is addressing high unmet medical needs and improving patient outcomes worldwide.

“In fact, we’re at the cusp of launching at least one new medicine in each of those therapeutic areas, so the focus on innovation has been significant,” says Ilya Yuffa, Executive Vice President of Eli Lilly and Company and President of Lilly International.

Alzheimer’s disease is a relentless condition. According to Alzheimer’s Disease International, over 55 million people are currently living with dementia – a number projected to rise to 139 million by 2050. The economic burden of dementia is staggering, with costs reaching US$1.3 trillion globally.

“There is a novel class of U.S. FDA-approved therapy for Alzheimer’s disease, which we anticipated to be available here in Taiwan, signaling great progress for not only those suffering from Alzheimer’s but also their close network and caregivers,” says Yuffa. In Taiwan, the prevalence of dementia is a growing concern. The estimated 350,000 dementia patients over the age of 65 here is expected to double by 2041.

Lilly has been at the forefront of Alzheimer’s research for over 30 years, driven by the belief that time is worth fighting for. Early diagnosis and timely treatment are crucial in managing the disease effectively as it progresses slowly over 10-20 years.

“Amyloid plaque may be the first precursor to Alzheimer’s disease progression, and by removing it, there’s a chance to slow the progression significantly,” says Yuffa. With many patients enrolled in the study to prove this hypothesis, the company looks forward to seeing the results in the coming years.

Lilly’s newest treatments targeting early Alzheimer’s patients, after receiving positive recommendations, were approved on July 2 by the U.S. FDA, marking a significant milestone in Alzheimer’s care. As Taiwan approaches a super-aging society by 2025, Lilly’s collaboration with the government, healthcare professionals, and the community is vital.

Another critical aspect that Eli Lilly is addressing is obesity, Yuffa notes. The World Health Organization reported that one in eight people worldwide were living with obesity in 2022. In Taiwan, obesity rates are rising, with a prevalence rate higher than both Japan and South Korea.

“Obesity is more than a lifestyle disease; it’s a chronic disease that needs to be tackled unambiguously,” Yuffa says. There’s a significant stigma related to obesity. Many believe it’s caused by poor lifestyle habits, but there is no one cause of obesity, so there isn’t only one approach to treat it, he adds.

Lilly is addressing misperceptions surrounding obesity. The company believes that scientific breakthroughs must be accompanied by a shift in how healthcare professionals, policymakers, and society view and understand obesity.

“By providing comprehensive care and empowering patients, we aim to improve the quality of life for those struggling with obesity,” says Yuffa.

The company recognizes obesity is influenced by biological, genetic, behavioral, environmental, social, and cultural factors. Lilly’s chronic weight management medicine, set to launch in Taiwan in the near future, represents a game-changer in the fight against obesity and its related health complications.

At the core of Eli Lilly’s mission is a robust investment in research and development. In 2023 alone, Lilly invested an impressive US$9.313 billion in R&D. This substantial investment underscores Lilly’s dedication to scientific discovery and innovation. “Nearly one-fourth of our global workforce is engaged in R&D activities,” says Yuffa. “We’re well-positioned to continue our legacy of developing life-changing medications.”

As a vital market for Eli Lilly, the company continues to invest significantly in Taiwan, leveraging Taiwan’s outstanding quality of medical care and efficiency in patient recruitment for clinical trials. In 2024, Lilly plans to invest more than US$23.6 million to conduct over 60 clinical trials in Taiwan, focusing on diabetes, oncology, immunology, and neuroscience.

“Lilly’s presence in Taiwan aligns with the market’s healthcare challenges, including an aging society and the increasing burden of chronic diseases,” notes Yuffa. Lilly is determined to be the best partner for Taiwan, providing innovative solutions and working closely with stakeholders to address these pressing healthcare issues.