500th participant from the region enrols in aspirin trial
Over 150 people marked a recruitment milestone – the 500th participant from the ACT to enrol in the ASPREE study – at a morning tea in Canberra today.
ASPREE, the largest primary prevention aspirin trial in Australians aged 70 and over, is investigating whether daily low-dose aspirin can delay or prevent the onset of common age-related disease such as heart attack, stroke, dementia and some cancers. It will, for the first time, weigh the potential health benefits of aspirin use, among this population, against the risks.
The celebrations provided an opportunity for participants and guests to receive an update on the trial’s progress, as well as a chance to catch up with one another over scones and tea.
The Canberra Clinic Trial Centre, which is based at the Canberra Hospital, aims to recruit 1000 ASPREE participants in the ACT and regional NSW by 2013.
ASPREE also has clinical l trial centres are in regional Victoria, Tasmania and South Australia.
So far, the study has enrolled more than 7700 Australian participants and almost 1700 general practitioner associate investigators, making ASPREE the largest GP-based study ever undertaken in the country.
ASPREE is open to older adults aged 70 and above who have not had a heart attack or stroke and who are prepared to take a daily low dose of aspirin or placebo and undergo annual health checks for five years.
To be involved call 1800 728 745 or email aspree@monash.edu.