Diabetes carries a variety of risk factors including heart disease and stroke. On July 24, the UCLA Center for Human Nutrition announced that it was recruiting adults with type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease to assist in the evaluation of an investigational drug and its effects on heart disease and stroke risk. Although recruiting began six months ago, more volunteers are needed.Volunteers will be compensated for study participation.
UCLA is one of 27 sites throughout the globe participating in the study. “There is an epidemic of diabetes and those with this condition are also at a higher risk of developing cardiovascular disease,” said principal investigator Dr. David Heber, Professor of Medicine and Director, UCLA Center for Human Nutrition. “We’re currently researching the effects of this investigational drug and its effect on cardiovascular risks in this patient population.”
To qualify for the study, volunteers need to be age 50 or older, have had a heart attack or stroke, or be at high risk for such a cardiovascular event. The study will be conducted over an eight year period. During that time, the study participants will come to the UCLA Center for Human Nutrition for 19 clinic visits. They will receive physical exams and provide blood samples. After initial screening, volunteers will be randomized to receive either a weekly injection of study drug, or a placebo under the skin of the abdomen. Most common side effects of the study drug include nausea, stomach pain and either loose stools or constipation.
For more information, please call the UCLA Center for Human Nutrition at 310-825-0453 or 310-825-5517.
In addition to monetary compensation, participants in a clinical study may receive other benefits. They may on the receiving end of a beneficial drug in advance of the general public. Not uncommonly, the participants who receive the placebo also benefit from the study. The fact that they are receiving a medicine that might help their disease gives them an improved outlook on life. Also, being under medical scrutiny often promotes a healthier lifestyle. Exercise can help one’s overall health by improving blood flow and blood pressure. It decreases insulin resistance even without weight loss. Exercise also increases the body’s energy level, lowers tension, and improves one’s ability to handle stress. Most individuals with type 2 diabetes are overweight; thus, the primary treatment of the condition is exercise and diet.
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