What is the impact of the NIH funding cuts on medical research?

The NIH funding cuts have led to the halting of 383 studies testing treatments for conditions like cancer, heart disease, and brain disease, affecting over 74,000 people enrolled in clinical trials.

What are the potential consequences of the NIH funding cuts on public trust in medical research?

Experts warn that the funding cuts could erode public trust in medical research, as patients who have been affected may be hesitant to participate in future studies, fearing that the funding could be abruptly withdrawn.

Home / Health / NIH Funding Cuts Disrupt Over 74,000 Clinical Trials Nationwide

NIH Funding Cuts Disrupt Over 74,000 Clinical Trials Nationwide

Q: How have the NIH funding cuts impacted infectious disease research?

The report found that the NIH funding cuts disproportionately impacted efforts to tackle infectious diseases like the flu, pneumonia, and COVID-19.

17 Nov

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Summary

383 studies testing treatments for cancer, heart, and brain diseases halted
Cuts disproportionately impacted infectious disease research
Disruption could erode public trust in medical research

NIH Funding Cuts Disrupt Over 74,000 Clinical Trials Nationwide

According to a report published on November 17, 2025, the National Institutes of Health's (NIH) funding cuts have had a significant impact on medical research across the United States. The report found that over 74,000 people enrolled in clinical trials have been affected by the funding reductions.

Between the end of February and mid-August 2025, funding ceased for 383 studies that were testing treatments for conditions including cancer, heart disease, and brain disease. Researchers noted that the cuts disproportionately impacted efforts to tackle infectious diseases like the flu, pneumonia, and COVID-19.

The disruption to these clinical trials has had profound consequences. Some patients may have signed up for trials that never began or were delayed, while others lost access to medication or were left with unmonitored medical devices. Additionally, the results of some completed trials may never be published.