During this century, animal research has been essential in the development of medical techniques and treatments which we - at the turn of the millennium - now take for granted.

The details of each discovery and stepping stone are outlined in the links located on the left hand side menu bar under the "History of Research" tab. But the truth can be summed up very easily: in the last century and a half, our average life span has increased almost 30 years. There is no question at all that biomedical research is the major reason for this increase.

Average Life Expectancy (North America) In 1850: 45 years

In 1998: 74 years

Will this trend continue? Yes! But only if animal-based biomedical research continues to receive much-needed support from concerned citizens, organizations and governments.

Without the use of animals, current biomedical research levels would deteriorate or, in many cases, cease altogether. The potential for new treatments and technologies would be lost. But this cannot - must not - happen. With the help of wise and humane animal-based research, it is certain that the 21st century will bring us closer to solving countless medical mysteries and improving life for people around the world.

Using this timeline, you can see, decade by decade, the important developments and breakthroughs which have occurred because of animal research in the field of medical science.