Access to medicines

Millions of poor people around the world fall sick and die because they lack access to the diagnostics, vaccines, and medicines needed to identify, prevent, or treat debilitating diseases.

Oxfam is working in partnership with other organizations to draw attention to two critical barriers that bar access to medicines in developing countries. First, we are publicizing the lack of innovation for new diagnostics, vaccines, and medicines. Second, we are fighting language in international trade agreements that would prevent poor people from accessing the patented medicines they desperately need but cannot afford.

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Right now, forty percent of the world’s population – more than 2.5 billion people – live in poverty, struggling to survive on less than $2 per day. The persistence of global poverty poses a challenge to the security, prosperity and values of the United States. Cuts to the world's most vulnerable communities have real impacts. Tell Congress we won't stand by while they make cuts that will cost lives.
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Top 10 things you need to know about Oxfam

Top 10 things you need to know about Oxfam

Here are the most important facts about Oxfam America: what we do, how we do it, and how you can get involved in our mission.

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Patents and trademarks—otherwise known as IP (intellectual property)—and why it is so important for poor countries.

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During a US tour, Thai activists explain how a trade agreement could limit access to affordable HIV and AIDS drugs.

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