America has long been a world leader in pioneering medical research discoveries. The scientific breakthroughs in the last century were breathtaking, and now the future looks even brighter.

Two cornerstones of our nation's research accomplishments are the National Institutes of Health and the National Science Foundation. The NIH tries to understand every aspect of health, from basic mechanisms of disease to clinical trials of new and novel approaches to treating the most common (heart disease and cancer) and the most rare of diseases. The NSF supports research in the fundamental sciences, such as biology and chemistry.

Only by truly understanding every aspect of human life, at the most basic level, will diseases be cured and disabilities that accompany aging be mitigated, assuring a better quality of life from the cradle to the grave.

To accomplish these goals, our nation has invested heavily in the two agencies. This investment has helped establish a medical industry that is essential to America's economic and physical well-being. It includes pharmaceutical, diagnostic and treatment sectors.

Of all the functions of our federally funded research endeavors, none is more important than creating opportunities and nurturing the careers of young scientists as they pursue postgraduate and doctoral training and eventually join the faculties of our medical schools and research institutions.

The NIH provides grants to young scientists that give them the opportunity to conduct research under the guidance of experienced mentors. This funding frees them to devote time to research. Without it they would likely have to do more teaching (in the case of basic scientists) or clinical care (in the case of academic physicians).

These young scientists conduct rigorous research that will hopefully lead to discoveries important enough to be published in science and medical journals. Publishing in peer-reviewed journals greatly enhances a researcher's chances for more grants and for promotion, such as tenure.

Needless to say, there is no more difficult or competitive a career than basic biologic or clinical research. The chances of success are small and the commitment must be total. A research career is possible only through dedication, long hours and much sacrifice, combined with true talent and intensive training. The key is obtaining a position in a respected researcher's laboratory, where a young scientist can be nurtured and gain experience.

The next step is applying for a grant from the NIH or NSF. A submitted proposal is reviewed by a panel of experts who score the grant based on its creativity and perceived chance of success. Of all the grants written, less than 10 percent are eventually funded. The percentage of proposals receiving funding is likely to fall further as budget cuts become a fact of life for the agencies.

A lack of funding could lead to a crisis in many aspects of health care research. Without supporting grants, research laboratories close and experienced and talented scientists end up working in more utilitarian environments.

Already there are too few young physicians willing to sacrifice for careers in academic research. Their training in understanding disease and treating patients provides them with the necessary insights that could lead to the next great health care breakthrough. Why should these young doctors consider a career in science when less demanding and more fiscally rewarding career choices are available?

Cuts in grant funding, which discourage our best and brightest from pursuing research careers, is a national tragedy. I hope that our political leaders and voters understand that America may soon no longer be on the cutting edge of medical research. While money may be saved in the short term, the effect of losing the leadership role to other nations could result in the decline of America's innovative health care industry, a vibrant economic engine fueled by research.

Dr. David Lipschitz is the author of the book "Breaking the Rules of Aging." To find out more about Dr. David Lipschitz and read features by other Creators Syndicate writers and cartoonists, visit the Creators Syndicate Web page at www.creators.com. More information is available at: www.drdavidhealth.com.