Ethiopia observed World Clinical Trials Day on May 20. The annual event highlights the contributions of medical research to human health.
Addis Ababa marked the occasion by recalling the first organized medical trial conducted by James Lind in 1747. Lind scientifically demonstrated that lemons and oranges could treat scurvy among sailors.
Clinical trials test the safety and effectiveness of new drugs, vaccines and treatments. Many modern medicines, from cancer therapies to COVID-19 vaccines, have emerged from such processes.
Ethiopia's Food and Drug Authority oversees trials in the country. This work protects participants' safety and rights while ensuring scientific credibility and reliable health products.