The Librexia program, a Phase 3 clinical trial, is actively working to address gaps in heart disease treatment by enrolling a diverse patient population. This initiative is investigating potential new treatments for patients with blood clotting diseases, including acute coronary syndrome (heart attack), atrial fibrillation, and prevention of repeated strokes.
Cardiovascular diseases and stroke remain leading causes of death worldwide, highlighting the urgent need for effective treatments. Roxana Mehran, MD, Professor of Medicine at Mount Sinai Health System, emphasizes the importance of diversity in clinical trials: "Clinical trials are a cornerstone of medical research and healthcare innovation... it is crucial that they include participants from diverse backgrounds... so that all communities can benefit from scientific advancements."
Historically, women and people of color have been underrepresented in cardiovascular research, which has primarily relied on white male study participants. Research published in JAMA Network Open indicates that women with atrial fibrillation face a higher risk of complications, such as stroke, compared to men. The American Heart Association reports that cardiovascular disease prevalence remains highest among non-Hispanic Black females and males, suggesting that gaps in care are partially attributable to representation in clinical trials.
The Librexia program is designed to find treatment options that can potentially improve outcomes in a wide range of patients, including underserved populations like women and people of color. By actively recruiting women and members from diverse populations, the program aims to ensure that its results are inclusive, equitable, and relevant for all patients. The goal is to ensure that trial enrollment represents the individuals likely to take the medication.
"Diverse representation in clinical trials can help us better understand the benefits of a particular medication across all segments of the population," says Dr. Mehran. To learn more about cardiovascular and stroke trials, visit researchincludesme.com.
