Clinical trial to reduce heart and stroke disease taking place in Sudbury

Research looking into whether a cholesterol-lowering drug can reduce the risk of heart disease and prevent heart attacks and strokes is underway in Sudbury.

The Advanced Medical Research Institute of Canada is launching a study that will take place over the next five to eight years.

The Eliminate Coronary Artery Disease study will look at whether the daily use of Lipitor over a long period of time reduces certain heart disease.

“Cardiovascular disease is the main cause of death in the western world,” Dr. Franciso Diaz-Mitoma, AMRIC’s CEO said.

“This study can have a huge impact globally, and we’re doing it right here in Sudbury.”

The trial will start with patients in Sudbury and expand to other communities in Ontario.

“It has long been established that northern Ontario has an increased percentage of heart disease,” he said.

“This study has the potential to change how doctors treat heart disease, not only here in Greater Sudbury, but around the world.”

Diaz-Mitoma said he is partnering with two of North America’s most prominent cardiologists for the study, both who also serve as affiliated clinical research scientists at AMRIC.

Pfizer, the manufacturer of Lipitor, is supply the drug for free to participants of the study.