China Internet giant Baidu’s Health Internet Hospital unit has entered into a strategic partnership with UK pharmaceutical major GlaxoSmithKline plc (GSK, NYSE: GSK). The collaboration aims to leverage GSK’s medical science expertise and Baidu Health’s science and technology capabilities to execute various disease education programs, with a primary focus on shingles disease prevention. The financial details of the agreement have not been disclosed.
Addressing the Growing Burden of Shingles in China
With approximately 1.56 million new cases of shingles affecting individuals aged 50 years and over in China each year, the disease burden is anticipated to increase due to the country’s ageing population. The treatment and prevention of shingles thus present a significant medical need. Against this backdrop, the strategic cooperation between Baidu Health and GSK will concentrate on shingles prevention as a pilot area.
Baidu’s Commitment to Digital Innovation in Healthcare
Baidu will continue to employ digital innovation in its collaboration with partners, aiming to assist middle-aged and elderly users in overcoming medical information barriers. The partnership seeks to promote active health among the middle-aged and elderly demographic, contributing to the maturation of the Chinese middle-aged and elderly health market.-Fineline Info & Tech
