Editor's Viewpoint

Editor's Viewpoint: Looking forward to 2008

Part I of this FDLI SmartBrief special year-end report looked back at the most important trends and stories of 2007. Part II, below, highlights our predictions and yours for what's in store for 2008.

It would appear that the upcoming year will present many challenges and opportunities for our industries. Companies will work to adjust to the new regulatory environment under the FDAAA legislation, while seeking renewed consumer confidence in drug safety. Generic drugs, including generics of biotech drugs, could gain attention as presidential candidates speak about health care and ways to reduce health care costs. Also, Congress will very likely examine cloned-animal food labeling and food safety regulations.

As for FDLI events, the first half of the year will bring several significant conferences including, the Food Safety Conference, Sixth Annual Enforcement & Litigation Conference, First Annual Nanotechnology Conference and the 51st Annual FDLI & FDA Conference in Washington, D.C., in March. Visit the FDLI Web site for full details.

Your Predictions

What is the most pressing issue currently facing the drug industry?

A. Drug safety -- 36%
B. Drug costs -- 24%
C. FDA approval process -- 31%
D. Reimbursement -- 9%

What is the most pressing issue facing the food industry?

A. Imports -- 60%
B. Pathogens in produce -- 29%
C. Heavy metals and other contaminants -- 11%

Which legislative/regulatory issue will be most important in 2008?

A. Reimbursement of drugs and devices -- 11%
B. Postmarket monitoring of drugs and devices -- 37%
C. Drug and device companies' gifts to doctors -- 7%
D. Universal health care -- 45%

FDLI 2008 Events

Upcoming FDLI Conferences

Introduction to Food Law & Regulation
Jan. 22 - 23, 2008
The Madison Hotel, Washington D.C.

Food Safety: Problems & Solutions -- Experts Discuss What Needs to Be Done and Predict What Will Happen
Jan. 24, 2008
The Madison Hotel, Washington D.C. 

Introduction to Medical Device Law & Regulation
Feb. 11 - 12, 2008
The Embassy Suites Washington, D.C., Convention Center Hotel

6th Annual Conference on Enforcement & Litigation
Feb. 19 - 20, 2008
L'Enfant Plaza Hotel, Washington D.C.

Introduction to Drug Law & Regulation
Feb. 21 - 22, 2008
L'Enfant Plaza Hotel, Washington D.C.

1st Annual Conference on Nanotechnology Law, Regulation and Policy
Feb. 28 - 29, 2008
L'Enfant Plaza Hotel, Washington D.C. 

51st Annual FDLI & the FDA Conference
March 26 - 27, 2008
L'Enfant Plaza Hotel, Washington D.C.

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