The WA Country Health Service is working with international oncology research firm, Eli Lilly and Company, to deliver a clinical trial aimed at alleviating nausea for patients undergoing chemotherapy – the first commercially sponsored clinical trial for regional Western Australia.
The WACHS Trial Centre, in collaboration with clinicians in the Goldfields and Great Southern, is leading the research.
The YAAD clinical trial is a Phase 2, double-blind, placebo-controlled study evaluating the efficacy of a new medicine to treat chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting.
Participants in the trial are randomly assigned into two groups; one is prescribed the medicine and the other is given a placebo. Both groups then receive their planned chemotherapy treatment and usual standard-of care antiemetic medicine.
Dedicated in-house laboratory spaces have been established at the Albany and Esperance Health Campuses to collect local samples while regional clinicians administer medication and monitor participant health.
Medical Research Minister, Stephen Dawson said the trial marks a major milestone in building WA’s clinical trial reputation globally, by attracting world-class treatments, industry research collaborations, and long-term investment into country communities.
“Thanks to this work, patients are able to access a cutting-edge trial without having to travel to the metropolitan area,” said Mr Dawson.
“Ensuring rural and remote communities have access to trials like this one is crucial to improving equity in health care.
“By investing in regional clinical trial capability, the Cook Labor Government is improving patient outcomes while positioning Western Australia as a key player on the national and global research stage.”
Health Minister, Meredith Hammat said the trial gave her great confidence that more country patients will be able to access innovative treatments and research opportunities in the future.
“We are building a strong and sustainable clinical trials network that is ensuring country patients can access world-class research and healthcare closer to home,” she said.
“No matter where Western Australians live, they should have the opportunity to benefit from the latest medical advances, and having country hospitals involved in clinical trials is helping make that a reality.”
