Kristof of NY Times Spotlights Population Council Contraceptives

In his column in yesterday's New York Times, Pulitzer Prize winner Nicholas Kristof argued that it's time to make family planning a priority as a basic human right and a crucial component in the effort to overcome global poverty. We at the Population Council agree.

We were pleased that Kristof cited the contraceptive research and development underway at the Council as an example of the promise that greater investments hold. He described the the Council's contraceptive vaginal ring, a user-controlled method that provides protection for one year without replacement, which means lower costs and fewer trips to the doctor, pharmacy, or health clinic. The Council is now preparing a new drug application on the contraceptive ring for submission to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for review during 2001 to 2012. Kristof's column also highlighted Council research on dual-purpose rings that once developed, not only should prevent unintended pregnancy, but may also help prevent the spread of HIV and other sexually transmitted infections or provide additional benefits, such as safeguarding breast health.


Please read Nick Kristof's column (http://www.nytimes.com/2010/09/26/opinion/26kristof.html). I hope it encourages you to visit the Population Council's website and learn more about our pioneering contraceptive research and development. We are proud of our history of innovation, which includes the Copper T intrauterine device, the Mirena® intrauterine system, and the contraceptive implant, Jadelle®--products that have been used by over 120 million women around the world. Consider sharing Kristof's article with friends and family to encourage greater support for developing safe and affordable contraceptive options, especially methods well suited to women and their partners in need in developing countries.

Contraceptive research and development is one aspect of our long-standing effort to advance human rights, save women's lives, and enhance development prospects through better quality, more available family planning services. You can learn more about this work at www.popcouncil.org.