In commemoration of International Clinical Trials Day 2024, Xcene Research, a leading clinical research organization (CRO) in Nigeria, partnered with Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH), Nigerian Institute of Medical Research (NIMR), Sickle Cell Advocacy and Management Initiative (SAMI), and TESS Foundation, a non-profit organization, to raise awareness about the importance of clinical trials and their potential to improve healthcare outcomes.
The day began with a well-attended road walk through the Idi-Araba axis to the National stadium in Lagos. Participants, including representatives from Xcene Research, partner organizations and healthcare professionals held banners and placards highlighting the theme of International Clinical Trials Day 2024 – “Trailblazers among us”.
The walk culminated in a community healthcare outreach programme with insightful discussions and informative sessions held at the Lagos National Stadium. During the outreach, TESS Foundation provided free checkups for residents, while Xcene Research and partner healthcare institutions from LUTH and NIMR engaged the community in educational sessions about clinical trials. These sessions focused on:
- Understanding the clinical trial process
- The benefits of participating in clinical trials
- The role of clinical research in developing new treatments and cures
“International Clinical Trials Day is a pivotal moment for us to highlight the essential contributions of clinical trials to medical advancements” said Adebukunola Telufusi, Executive Director – Xcene Research. “Our partnership with LUTH, NIMR, SAMI, and TESS Foundation exemplifies our collective commitment to improving health outcomes through research and community engagement.”
Joy Ighowheme, Programme Manager – TESS Foundation, added, “We believe that our founding structure, which focuses on providing Access to Healthcare and Education (PAHE) in Africa will create a fertile environment now and for future generations.”
The collaborative effort by Xcene Research, LUTH, NIMR, SAMI, and TESS Foundation demonstrates a collective commitment to improving healthcare access and education in Nigeria. By raising awareness about clinical trials, the organizations hope to encourage more Nigerians to participate in research that can benefit not only their own health but also the health of future generations.
