USIBC applauds Abbott for 100 years of improving healthcare in India

Today the U.S.-India Business Council (USIBC) saluted Abbott Laboratories for 100 years of improving healthcare in India. In 1910, Abbott was one of the first multinationals to establish operations in India. Over the past century, Abbott has been dedicated to connecting Indian patients with access to quality medication and patient care, enhancing the quality of life for its customers.

“Turning science into caring is not just a phrase for Abbott India. Through their various patient outreach initiatives, educational programs and access programs, Abbott is helping lead the way for a new era of U.S.-India healthcare collaboration which has the potential to improve millions of lives.”

USIBC President Ron Somers praised Abbott's dedication to India, noting, "Abbott has never wavered in their belief in India. With the recent purchase of Piramal's Healthcare Solutions Business, it's clear that the first 100 years are just the beginning." Mr. Somers went on to note that Abbott has been feted with recent accolades of "Best Pharma Company of the Year 2010" and "Best Pharma OTC Company of the Year 2010" by Pharmaleaders.

According to Mr. Somers, "Turning science into caring is not just a phrase for Abbott India. Through their various patient outreach initiatives, educational programs and access programs, Abbott is helping lead the way for a new era of U.S.-India healthcare collaboration which has the potential to improve millions of lives." He noted that with President Barack Obama set to visit India in November, "Abbott's India operations embody the best example of collaboration and modern innovation that we hope the two governments will recognize and continue to foster."

In line with a key focus of USIBC's Coalition for Healthy India, Abbott has committed to increase diabetes awareness in India. The disease currently affects the working age population and is the leading cause of blindness, kidney failure, heart attack, stroke and amputation. Abbott's targeted initiatives, including their free education drives and blood glucose testing, have created awareness among India's patient population. These types of initiatives have not gone unnoticed. Today, USIBC applauds Abbott's efforts to address the issue of India being the number one country in the world to suffer with the highest rate of diabetes, and looks forward to Abbot's continuing contribution in this important field, looking toward a committed 100 years to come.