Intractable diseases

Incurable diseases

Nature

Includes both diseases of unknown aetiology, with no established therapeutic remedies (and with the possibility of sequelae), and chronic diseases, which put a heavy social and economic burden on both the patient and the relatives. The definition may be narrowed to include only serious mental and physical disorders (progressive muscular atrophy and dystropy, etc), but may be extended to include: Behcet's disease, multiple sclerosis, myasthenia gravis, and others.

Background

The global significance of intractable diseases emerged in the late 20th century, as medical advances highlighted persistent conditions resistant to conventional therapies. International attention intensified with the HIV/AIDS crisis and the rise of drug-resistant tuberculosis, prompting coordinated research and policy responses. The ongoing struggle to manage such diseases has since underscored disparities in healthcare access and galvanized transnational initiatives, reflecting a growing recognition of their profound social and economic impacts worldwide.

Incidence

Intractable diseases, characterized by their resistance to conventional treatments, affect millions globally and impose a significant burden on healthcare systems. Conditions such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), certain forms of cancer, and multidrug-resistant tuberculosis persist despite advances in medical science, leading to prolonged suffering and high mortality rates. The global incidence of these diseases continues to rise, particularly in low- and middle-income countries where access to advanced therapies is limited.
In 2023, Japan reported a notable increase in cases of intractable neurological diseases, including Parkinson’s disease and ALS, with over 1.2 million patients registered nationwide, highlighting the growing challenge of managing these conditions (https://www.mhlw.go.jp/english/).

Claim

Intractable diseases represent one of humanity’s most urgent and devastating challenges. Their resistance to current treatments inflicts relentless suffering, drains healthcare resources, and shatters families. Ignoring these conditions is both unethical and short-sighted. We must prioritize research, funding, and global collaboration to confront intractable diseases head-on. The world cannot afford complacency—lives are at stake, and decisive action is not just important, but absolutely imperative.

Counter-claim

The concern over intractable diseases is vastly overstated. With so many pressing global issues—poverty, climate change, and education—devoting significant resources to conditions that affect relatively few is misguided. Medical advancements already address most health concerns, and obsessing over rare, stubborn diseases diverts attention from broader, more impactful challenges. Society should prioritize problems that benefit the majority, not chase elusive cures for a small minority. Intractable diseases are simply not a critical priority.