Ulster Hospital Cardiology Research Team Leads the Way in Vital Study

17th June 2024

The Cardiology Research Team at the Ulster Hospital, led by Clinical Director of Research & Innovation, Dr Patrick Donnelly and Consultant Cardiologist, Dr Bernardas Valecka, have achieved a significant milestone by surpassing their recruitment target in the ground-breaking ‘PREVAIL’ study

The ‘PREVAIL’ study is a large international research initiative that aims to recruit 9,000 participants across 15 countries. The study focuses on patients diagnosed with Coronary Artery Disease who have high levels of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), commonly known as ‘bad cholesterol’ in their blood, despite being on maximum cholesterol-lowering medication, or unable to take such medications (e.g. statins).

High levels of LDL cholesterol are a well-known major risk factor for the development of heart and blood vessel diseases. The ‘PREVAIL’ study aims to demonstrate that the medication ‘Obicetrapib’ can effectively lower LDL cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of death and heart attacks. Obicetrapib works by inhibiting the cholesterol ester transfer protein (CETP) found in the blood, which is responsible for increasing LDL cholesterol levels. By blocking this protein, the medication is expected to lower ‘bad cholesterol’ levels, thereby reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases in patients.

Cardiology patient, Ricky Donnelly who is taking part in the study said, “I would comfortably say it has been effortless and the Research Team are very welcoming and make you feel at ease.

“I would encourage anyone considering taking part in any study to put themselves forward to help with research, I felt I was giving a little something back to our healthcare system and the Research Team were very appreciative of my effort.”

Dr Donnelly commented, “It has been a great journey. We were fortunate to attract this study to the Ulster Hospital and to have the support of the Northern Ireland Cardiac Research Network. Our patients have been very interested in taking part. I would like to thank our patients and the Research Team for all of their hard work and dedication in exceeding our recruitment target, thereby making us one of the top recruiting sites in this global trial. This study has provided early access to a new medication for our patients and it has the potential to transform the way we manage high cholesterol and prevent heart disease.”

Dr Valecka stated, “Our involvement in the ‘PREVAIL’ study highlights the South Eastern Trust’s commitment to advancing cardiovascular research and improving patient outcomes. We are proud to contribute to this significant research study and I want to thank all of our patients for taking part and our staff for their support.”

Research Nurse, Susan Regan added, “It is a great privilege to work on this study and be involved in supporting evidence-based practice. It is with thanks to the Cardiac Rehab Team and the Cardiac Chest Pain Team who supported us with recruiting patients and giving patients the opportunity to be part of research.”