Dr. Catherine Benziger, a cardiologist at Essentia Health, emphasizes the importance of clinical studies in making a difference for future generations. Essentia Health has been recognized as the highest enrolling site for the PREVENTABLE study from July 22 through Dec. 6, 2024. This study, which began in 2020, is the largest of its kind focusing on participants aged 75 or older, aiming to determine if statins can prevent dementia, disability, or heart disease in older adults.
Essentia's enrollment of 563 participants, approximately 6% of the total 8,947 participants as of Jan. 4, 2025, surpasses that of any other health system or university involved in the study. This achievement is notable given the competition includes major universities and hospitals in densely populated urban areas across the country.
Dr. Benziger highlighted Essentia's dedication to research, utilizing the MyChart patient portal and making thousands of recruitment calls to engage potential participants. The enthusiasm among participants stems from the desire to contribute to research that could benefit their children and future generations.
Essentia's commitment to ensuring that studies reflect the communities it serves is evident in its approach to enrolling a diverse population. This inclusivity is crucial for the representativeness of clinical trials across the U.S. population, not just those in large urban academic centers.
Individuals interested in participating in the study through Essentia must be 75 or older, not currently taking a statin, and free from heart disease, dementia, or significant disabilities that limit daily activities. Enrollment can be conducted remotely, offering convenience to participants.
