ILSC is committed to combat underfunded non-communicable diseases.
In 2018, ILSC refocused its commitment to combatting underfunded non-communicable diseases (NCD’s). ILSC envisions a world free from such diseases, which alleviates health suffering and improves and extends life expectancies. In order to make the greatest possible impact, ILSC applies its expertise and resources in areas of NCD therapeutics, diagnostics, and research. ILSC continues to leverage partnerships with the world’s best research universities and fosters collaborations that further the United Nations Sustainable Goals, in particular SDG #3, “Good Health and Well-being.”
Tackling Non-communicable Diseases with Innovative Approaches
Over the past 30 years, much progress has been made to further understand the human body. According to International Classification of Diseases, ICD-11, approximately 17,000 diseases continue to cause suffering in every corner of the world, most of which lack critical funding or effective therapies. For the vast majority of patients globally, inadequate healthcare access, treatment, and medication are disturbingly common. According to the WHO, 74% of deaths worldwide are from chronic, non-communicable diseases. Even though communicable diseases cause fewer deaths, they receive more public and private funding than non-communicable diseases.
Non-communicable diseases can be serious, protracted, and progressive, and nearly half of them manifest during childhood. Mortality from NCD’s is high, with 85% of early deaths occurring in low- and middle-income countries. NCD’s threaten progress towards the United Nation’s Agenda for Sustainable Development Goal #3: Good Health and Well-Being, which strives for a 33% reduction of premature NCD deaths by 2030.
The hurdle remains that many non-communicable diseases fall under the radar of broad public awareness. They usually do not receive necessary attention by for-profit pharmaceutical companies. Therefore, it remains the purview of ILSC and other NGO’s to tackle these persistent maladies to alleviate suffering and premature deaths from underfunded NCD’s.
History
The Institute for Life Sciences Collaboration (ILSC) was officially formed in 2012 to collaborate with key stakeholders to address global health issues and continue international programs in the life sciences. ILSC coordinated these programs and conferences with international and national authorities, academic and research organizations, and leading NGOs (Non-Governmental Organizations), such as the United Nations Association of the USA and the Council of Organizations. ILSC was also in the forefront of highlighting the consequences of antimicrobial resistance. All of ILSC’s activities are centered on advancing the United Nations Agenda 2030 and Sustainable Development Goals.
Leadership
Rick Flath, President and Founding Director
Rick counts on over 30 years of successful business consulting, along with in-depth knowledge of biotechnology in devices and therapeutics, non- profit organizations, and investment programs. He also is a member of the Executive Committee of the Council of Organizations (UNA-USA) and has been on numerous non-profit boards over the years.
“My focus is to bring these many years of organizational experience to help enhance global health and well-being through ILSC.”
Markus Warlitz, Director
Markus oversees the operational affairs of ILSC. He has been leading diverse and cross-cultural organizations in many countries around the world for 20+ years. He has served on other non-profit boards and is the managing founder of Pandion Group, specializing in sustainable business transformation.
“Rick and I share the same passion to make a meaningful impact for those less fortunate. Through ILSC we can make a real difference, all united in the same cause.”
Donald L. Very, Jr., Ph.D.
Head of Science for the Sickle Cell Initiative. With over thirty years of diagnostic pharmaceutical assay development and performance qualification experience, Don was the lead scientist on the team that developed the UPA reagents and tests that is used by ILSC innovations to detect kidney disease. Don is also President, CEO, and Founder of NaviterBioanalytics, LLC, a private consulting firm specializing in bioanalytical method development, performance qualification, and regulatory approval. He is a Visiting Scholar at Duquesne University in Pittsburgh, PA, where he teaches graduate level courses in cell and molecular biology and immunology. Don is a frequently invited speaker at national and international scientific symposia.
“I’m very excited to be part of the Sickle Cell Initiative Team.”
Directors
Sheldon Zaslansky, Chairperson and Founding Director
Sheldon brings strategic insights and input to ILSC as a seasoned entrepreneur and business consultant, together with a strong marketing honed over a 40-year career. He is on the Board of Directors for the New Designs Charter School in Los Angeles and is on the Community Outreach Committee for UCLA Medical School.
“I have been involved in many charitable organizations over the years, and ILSC’s global reach is truly unique.”