K2 Medical Research has established a new clinical trials program in East Providence, Rhode Island, expanding its research capabilities to Southern New England. The privately owned clinical research facility is primarily focused on addressing Alzheimer's disease (AD) through innovative clinical trials, while also maintaining a strong commitment to patient care.
"Clinical trials are the cornerstone of medical progress," said Dr. Daniel Sacchetti, Principal Investigator at K2 Medical Research. "They allow us to explore new therapies with the potential to transform how we prevent, manage, and treat disease thereby offering hope not only to today's patients but to future generations as well."
Addressing the Alzheimer's Crisis
The launch comes at a critical time in Alzheimer's research. According to the Alzheimer's Association 2025 Facts and Figures, more than 7 million Americans are currently living with Alzheimer's disease, with nearly 12 million individuals providing unpaid caregiving. The economic burden of this care is estimated at $384 billion annually.
Alzheimer's has become the fifth leading cause of death in the United States, surpassing the combined mortality rates of breast and prostate cancer. In Rhode Island specifically, approximately 22,000 residents are affected by the disease, with 11.4% of adults aged 65 and older living with Alzheimer's.
Current Research Initiatives
The East Providence site is actively enrolling participants for two Alzheimer's disease studies targeting different stages of the condition. Additionally, the facility is conducting a separate study evaluating an investigational medication for alcohol use disorder.
While K2 Medical Research is new to Rhode Island, the team brings substantial expertise to the region. The research group has over 30 years of combined experience in Alzheimer's research and maintains strong connections within Rhode Island's clinical research community.
Community Engagement and Clinical Trials Day
The facility's launch coincides with Clinical Trials Day, celebrated annually on May 20 to commemorate the first recognized randomized clinical trial conducted by British naval surgeon James Lind in 1747. His groundbreaking study on scurvy, which identified citrus fruits as an effective treatment, established the foundation for modern clinical research methodologies.
To mark both Clinical Trials Day and their East Providence launch, K2 Medical Research will host educational seminars and community talks while participating in local summer festivals and health fairs. The organization's mascot, Katooey the yeti, will make appearances throughout the community to raise awareness about clinical research opportunities.
Expanding Research Footprint
K2 Medical Research, headquartered in Orlando, Florida, has established itself as a leading clinical research organization dedicated to advancing medical science through ethical clinical trials. The East Providence location joins existing facilities in Florida and Nashville, Tennessee, furthering the organization's mission to drive medical innovation.
For those interested in learning more about the East Providence location or potentially participating in ongoing studies, K2 Medical Research offers free memory screenings and consultations to determine study eligibility. The facility can be reached at 401-955-5252, and additional information is available on their website.
