CONRAD (organization)

CONRAD is a non-profit organization dedicated to improving reproductive health worldwide, particularly in resource-limited settings. The organization's primary focus is on the development of new contraceptive methods and microbicides to prevent HIV transmission.

History

CONRAD was established in 1986 under a cooperative agreement between Eastern Virginia Medical School (EVMS) and the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). The organization was named in honor of Clarence J. Gamble, a pioneer in the field of family planning.

Mission

CONRAD's mission is to improve reproductive health by expanding the contraceptive choices available to women and men, and by helping to prevent the transmission of HIV. The organization achieves this through the development of new technologies and by conducting clinical trials to ensure the safety and effectiveness of these products.

Research and Development

CONRAD's research and development efforts are focused on the following areas:

• Contraceptive Development: CONRAD is involved in the development of new contraceptive methods, including long-acting reversible contraceptives (LARCs) and multipurpose prevention technologies (MPTs).

• HIV Prevention: CONRAD is a leader in the development of microbicides, substances that can be applied inside the vagina or rectum to protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs) including HIV.

• Reproductive Health Technologies: CONRAD also works on the development of other reproductive health technologies, such as diagnostic tools and treatments for STIs.

Partnerships

CONRAD collaborates with a wide range of partners, including academic institutions, pharmaceutical companies, non-profit organizations, and government agencies. These partnerships enable CONRAD to leverage resources and expertise to accelerate the development and introduction of new reproductive health products.

See Also

• Reproductive Health
• Family Planning
• HIV/AIDS
• Sexually Transmitted Infections