Interview: 3 reasons why medications are so expensive in the US | Kiah Williams

Interview: 3 reasons why medications are so expensive in the US | Kiah Williams

Author: TED April 29, 2025 Duration: 28:56

A century after its discovery, insulin remain essential in treating diabetes, and has a relatively low production cost, with a vial generally costing less than $6 to make. But those in the US pay on average 10 times more than those in other countries— leading some patients to take less than prescribed. Kiah Williams takes a look at the US supply chain to explore why medications are so expensive. [Directed by Tolga Yıldız, Serin İnan, Kozmonot Animation Studio, narrated by Christina Greer, music by Tolga Yıldız].


After the talk, Shoshana interviews Dr. Hussain Lalani on his research into improving access to affordable prescription drugs.

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Curiosity about our own bodies and minds often starts with a simple, surprising question. TED Health, hosted by physician Dr. Shoshana Ungerleider, turns those questions into a compelling exploration. This isn't just a summary of health tips; it's a deep dive into the ideas reshaping our understanding of well-being. You'll hear from leading TED speakers who are doctors, researchers, and thinkers, unpacking everything from the profound neurological effects of a daily walk to the emerging potential of psychedelic therapy for mental illness. Each episode is built on a foundation of rigorous science and accessible storytelling, moving beyond headlines to the nuanced realities of medical breakthroughs and everyday habits. The conversations in this podcast challenge assumptions and connect disparate fields, offering perspectives on longevity, mental fitness, and preventative care that you likely haven't encountered before. It’s for anyone who wants to understand the 'why' and the 'how' behind living a healthier life, providing not just answers but better frameworks for thinking about your own health. The discussions are grounded yet forward-looking, always aiming to translate complex concepts into meaningful, actionable understanding. Listening feels like having a direct line to the cutting edge of medical and wellness research, all filtered through Dr. Ungerleider's insightful and thoughtful guidance.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

TED Health
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