Introduction and transfer of technology.

In 1991 the World Health Organizations Special Programme of Research Development and Research Training in Human Reproduction established a Task Force on Research on the Introduction and Transfer of Technologies for Fertility Regulation. The goal of the Task Force is to help agencies optimize the use of fertility regulation technologies and to broaden contraception options for informed users. Thus the Task Force objectives include generating and distributing information determining service delivery and user needs and facilitating the transfer of contraceptive technologies. This 1992 annual report of the Task Force describes its new operational strategy as moving through three stages during the introductory process: a preliminary assessment an introductory trial and evaluation of research surrounding the trial and expansion of introduction. Specific planned ongoing and completed projects are described for each stage. Ongoing and planned projects to develop IEC (information education and communication) materials are also discussed. The Task Force also addresses product management issues which insure a sustainable supply of products (including the establishment of new and the monitoring of existing hormonal contraception production facilities). The report ends by describing ways in which the Task Force collaborates with other agencies as well as its efforts to disseminate information through womens health advocacy groups and a symposium. The work of the Task Force has been largely dominated by efforts to introduce the monthly injectable Cyclofem in developing countries.