Part 3/8:
In a recent interview, former FDA Commissioner Dr. Robert Califf articulated his deep concerns regarding the ramifications of these staffing reductions. He stressed that the FDA's capabilities are stretched thin as it oversees about 20% of the economy, regulating essential drugs, devices, and food safety. The abrupt removal of experienced personnel, particularly those who have recently been promoted, compromises the FDA's ability to manage pressing public health threats effectively.
Califf provided an alarming example: the cancelation of a crucial rare disease study meeting due to insufficient staffing at the FDA and NIH. As a result, families facing dire health conditions lacked the necessary support from the agencies that should be caring for their needs.