Hongxin CAOPresident, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences

Scientific research has greatly promoted the development of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). In 2007, in order to propel the inheritance, innovation and development of TCM, TCM Program of Innovation and Development (2006-2020) was promulgated by totally 16 Ministries and Commissions including the Ministry of Science and Technology of the People’s Republic of China. In 2009, aiming at bringing TCM into full play in the health system reform in China, Suggestions for Supporting and Advancing the Development of TCM was publicized by the State Council. Focusing on prevention and treatment of the major diseases with TCM and development of new TCM medicine, importance has been attached to the scientific research of TCM as the national key project. Thus, the pattern of TCM scientific research on multiple subjects, inter-departmental and trans-regional study is formed.

We should improve the capability of independent innovation, reinforce the research of TCM competitive diseases and the construction of clinical research base on the basis of TCM characteristics. Dynamic integration of Modern Science and Technology and TCM are also significant in the development of TCM. In order to improve the prevention and treatment capability of TCM, it is necessary to conduct the safety study. The rapidly development of TCM will play an important role in the service of the economic construction and social advancement and achieving their coordinated development.