What your participation means to global health
Through the generous support of our 19,114 ASPREE participants we were able to provide scientific evidence on the benefits versus the risks of aspirin for ‘primary prevention’ (to prevent a first heart attack or stroke) in healthy older people. Three ASPREE research papers were published in one issue of the New England Journal of Medicine in September 2018.
You can download the announcement of the results by the National Institute on Aging here and Q&As about the trial and results here.
More ASPREE trial results are expected to be published in 2019.
“Often you read about tests and research and you wonder ‘who answers all these questions?’ This is my chance to help. Why not? I’m also an optimist. It’s a five year trial and I’m already 81.
I’ve never been involved in studies before and I don’t know anyone who has. But it is no trouble to participate – just take a tablet a day and have a few health checks.” (Elizabeth, Australian participant, 2013)
“Another aspect of the Update was the way in which all of us, I feel sure, felt proud of what you are doing for the scientific and general image of Australia. It is surely accurate to say that this well designed study is of singular medical significance worldwide……. The careful control matching and double (even triple) blinding are admirable.
In my research experience the requirement for any valid research is the tremendous challenge of true and complete elimination of bias. It can be very difficult indeed…..The design and management of ASPREE fills me with confidence and appreciation. I hope I am still breathing and with enough cognitive function left, in 5 to 7 years time, to learn the result of its important question. The other sub-studies (a couple of which I am a participant) are also of close interest.” (John, Australian participant, 2014)
More testimonials to come……
Study Protocols
A study protocol is the ‘bible’ for a clinical trial which must be approved by a Human Research Ethics Committee (HREC) before a study can legally commence in Australia. The Study Protocol documents the background to the study, the trial design, objectives, hypothesis, endpoints, patient well-being, study visit measurements, analysis and adherence to ethical regulations.
The ASPREE study Brochure
Download the ASPREE Information brochure or ring 1800 728 745 to order a copy.
Editions of ASPREE and ASPREE-XT Participant Newsletters ‘About a Tablet’
This biannual publication helps keep participants and the general community up to date on all things ASPREE – from study progress through to news stories, reminders and snippets. Submissions (limited to 100 words is ideal) and/or story suggestions are welcome! Send through your suggestions to aspree@monash.edu
