The European Medicines Agency has seen a 30% rise in applications for orphan drug licences in the first six months this year compared to the same period for 2011. Orphan drugs are for conditions which affect only a small proportion of the population and the status gives special advantages for drugs suppliers. The designation aims to encourage innovation for treating diseases where there would otherwise be a lack of incentive. The EMA’s online database of orphan drug designations issued its 1,000th designation in June.