Global Health Research Makes America Richer and Healthier

October 2, 2026

A population health researcher argues that U.S. investment in global health research produces substantial unexpected benefits for Americans, both economically and medically. Between 2008 and 2024, approximately $46 billion in U.S. government spending on global health generated $104 billion in economic activity and created 600,000 American jobs, with each dollar invested returning $2. 21.

Who is affected

American patients receiving treatments derived from global health research (such as those with eyelid inflammation, shingles, RSV, and bladder cancer)
600,000 U.S. workers employed through global health research funding
People in low- and middle-income countries affected by neglected tropical diseases, malaria, and tuberculosis
Children in sub-Saharan Africa benefiting from malaria vaccines
Unpaid caregivers in the U.S. who could benefit from long-term care programs
Residents of Washington state using the Washington Cares program
NIH and other U.S. governmental research institutions
American taxpayers funding global health research

What action is being taken

Impact Global Health is tracking "innovation spillover" from global health research
U.S. researchers are studying other countries' healthcare systems to identify improvements for American healthcare
Washington state is operating the Washington Cares long-term care insurance program (funded through payroll tax)

Why it matters

Global health research represents a highly efficient investment that generates significant returns for the U.S. economy while simultaneously improving American health outcomes. Every dollar invested yields $2.21 in returns and creates seven American jobs, demonstrating that helping address global health challenges directly benefits domestic interests. The research produces unexpected medical breakthroughs, with treatments for diseases in poor countries often leading to valuable therapies for conditions in wealthy nations. Additionally, studying healthcare systems worldwide provides actionable knowledge for improving America's own healthcare system, which most Americans find unsatisfactory.

What's next

No explicit next steps stated in the article

Read full article from source: The San Diego Voice & Viewpoint