Research under the microscope
CLINICAL TRIALS DAY TO BE HELD AT SUNDERLAND ROYAL HOSPITAL
Wearsiders are being invited to a special hospital event as part of International Clinical Trials Day.
The gathering, which takes place next month, is being held at Sunderland Royal Hospital’s Education Centre, with a number of activities and talks being held.
The research team behind the event has not yet finalised the programme, however, as a general overview the day will consist of a mock clinical trial with patients delivering talks on their real-life research stories, a question and answer session with staff as well as a poster viewing of successful research studies/ research charity stalls.
Kim Hinshaw, director of research and innovation at City Hospitals Sunderland and director of research and development at South Tyneside District Hospital, said: “We really want to promote how well we do in terms of research in Sunderland and South Tyneside.
“We’re also going to give some background about what clinical research actually is. It’s not just about trying new drugs on patients, it’s also about the sorts of interactions they have with staff.
“By taking part, patients can help to influence what happens on the shop floor, as it were.”
This year will be the 270th anniversary of what is believed to be the first clinical trial, which was carried out by surgeon mate James Lind aboard the HMS Salisbury of Britain’s Royal Navy fleet.
It came at a time when scurvyisthoughttohavekilled more British seamen than French and Spanish arms.
The event at the Royal will be held on Friday, May 19.
Those interested in attending should contact Emily Brand on 565 6256 ext 42143 or by emailing emily.brand@ chsft.nhs.uk.