Great Lakes Clinical Trials Initiates a Research Study for Individuals with Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS)

Great Lakes Clinical Trials is currently enrolling participants for a research study of an investigational medication for the treatment of moderate to severe hidradenitis suppurativa.

What is HS?

Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a long-term skin condition that features small, painful lumps under the skin. They typically develop where the skin rubs together, such as the armpits, the groin, between the buttocks and under the breasts. The lumps may break open and smell or cause tunnels under the skin.

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What is this trial studying?

An investigational drug is being studied for patients who have moderate to severe hidradenitis suppurativa. The purpose of this study is to evaluate if the investigational drug works and determine its safety.

To qualify participants must:

• Be over the age of 18

• Have been diagnosed with hidradenitis suppurativa for at least one year

• Have lesions in two distinct areas

• Had had an inadequate response to an oral antibiotic for treatment of HS

Other entry criteria may apply and will be reviewed with you prior to participation.

What are my costs to participate in this trial?

You will receive all study-related care and study-related drug at no cost. For your participation, you will receive a stipend of $75 for each clinic visit you complete, up to $1,125 for completing the study.

How long with the trial last?

This trial will involve up to 15 visits to our clinic over approximately 1 year.

If you are interested in joining this trial, please complete our on-line survey by clicking here. One of our staff will then follow-up with you within 24 hrs. Otherwise, you can call our center directly at (773) 275-3500 to speak with one of our staff today.

Alzheimer's Prevention Program

Great Lakes Clinical Trials is looking for individuals, aged 65-75 years, who have not been diagnosed with any memory impairment, but have a specific form of a gene that can increase the risk of developing Alzheimer's. Click here or call our team at 1-773-275-3500 to learn more today.

Great Lakes Clinical Trials To Initiate Atopic Dermatitis (Eczema) Research Program

Great Lakes Clinical Trials is pleased to announce that we will soon be initiating a research program for individuals with Atopic Dermatitis. This is part of the company’s diversification into dermatology under the direction of our Board-Certified Dermatologist. Other dermatology research programs at Great Lakes Clinical Trials include studies in Psoriasis and Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS).

If you would like our staff to contact you for enrollment, please fill out the form below to provide your contact information.

What is Atopic Dermatitis?

Atopic dermatitis is the most common type of eczema. More than 18 million American adults have atopic dermatitis. "Dermatitis" refers to a condition of the skin and "atopic" relates to diseases caused by allergic reactions.

During a flare, Atopic Dermatitis becomes a red, itchy rash which often appears on the cheeks, arms and legs. Many different physical and internal factors can trigger an eczema flare-up. The resulting inflammation causes increased blood flow and the urge to itch.

Eczema flares are part of the agonizing itch-scratch cycle. It’s hard to fight the physical and psychological components that drive the itch-scratch cycle. Scratching feels good at the time but can lead to more inflammation and even skin infections.

How is Atopic Dermatitis treated?

There’s no known cure for AD. Finding the right treatment is important to help reduce itching and discomfort. Calming the skin reduces stress and helps prevent excessive scratching that leads to skin infections.

Treatment options vary from over-the-counter skin care, prescription medication, and lifestyle changes. The best preventive measure is to moisturize the skin. This improves the function of the skin barrier. Healthier skin will become inflamed less often and provide a better barrier against allergens and irritants.

New Medications for Atopic Dermatitis

• Dupilumab (Dupixent) was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in March 2018. It is the first biologic agent approved to treat moderate to severe Atopic Dermatitis. Dupilumab is also in development for treating moderate to severe asthma. In two studies published in the New England Journal of Medicine, dupilumab improved the symptoms of AD compared with placebo. This included itchy skin (pruritus), anxiety and depression, and quality of life.

• A recent phase II clinical trial evaluated an oral drug called baricitinib. In the trial, about 61 percent of patients with moderate to severe Atopic Dermatitis receiving baricitinib achieved a 50 percent or more reduction in the Eczema Area and Severity Index (EASI-50). This was compared to 37 percent of patients who received a placebo. Baricitinib is already approved by the FDA for rheumatoid arthritis.

• Another study looked at a new treatment called nemolizumab in 216 adults with moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis. All monthly doses of nemolizumab significantly improved pruritus in these patients during the course of the study.

• In a 2015 study, 69 adults with Atopic Dermatitis were tested with a topical formulation of a drug called tofacitinib citrate. This drug is most often given orally to treat rheumatoid arthritis. It’s also used for psoriatic arthritis and ulcerative colitis. Tofacitinib citrate was shown to also have efficacy in people with Atopic Dermatitis. This was a very small study and more testing is needed. But the use of an RA medication in Atopic Dermatitis patients highlights some similarities. It suggests that Atopic Dermatitis functions more like an autoimmune disease than a surface-level skin disorder. More research to better understand these similarities should pave the way for new treatments.

Clinical Trials

Clinical trials are a great option for people looking to try a new treatment. If you’re interested in participating in clinical trial for AD, the National Eczema Association (NEA) posts a current list on their website. By participating in clinical trials, you can help shape the future of AD treatment options.

The Future of Atopic Dermatitis

It’s a promising time for AD research. There’s a public demand for more information, and researchers have taken an active interest in providing solutions. Based on current research and clinical studies, the outlook for AD patients is promising.

There are new medications and treatments on the horizon. Researchers are starting to treat AD like an autoimmune disease, which has opened a new realm of possibilities.

The statements provided above, along with additional information, can be found on a variety of Atopic Dermatitis informational websites, including:

www.healthline.com
www.nationaleczema.org

Mayor Rahm Emanuel Proclaims November 8th as Chicago Alzheimer's Awareness Day

Great Lakes Clinical Trials is proud to announce that Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel has officially proclaimed November 8th as “Chicago Alzheimer's Awareness Day”. This proclamation is associated with a citywide event taking place at the Swedish American Museum on November 8th to help raise awareness about the disease and to honor those volunteers that have taken steps to participate in research studies to help find a treatment, cure or prevention.

“I am so proud to be a lifelong resident and business owner in the City of Chicago, which recognizes the tireless achievements of medical research clinics and more importantly, the local residents who volunteer take part in clinical trials,” commented Steve Satek, President of Great Lakes Clinical Trials. “Without the participation of our senior community in research studies, we will never find a treatment or cure for Alzheimer’s disease. We are grateful for those that volunteer their time to join trials at Great Lakes Clinical Trials, as well as our many other research centers across Chicagoland”.

More information on the November 8th “Chicago Alzheimer's Awareness Day” event can be found on the Great Lakes Clinical Trials “Events” page or by clicking here.

The following is text from Mayor Emanuel’s proclamation. In addition, you can download an official copy of the proclamation by clicking here

PROCLAMATION

WHEREAS, the City of Chicago is home to approximately 2.7 million residents, with over 300,000 over the age of 65, and takes pride in promoting a healthy lifestyle with a continued strong quality of life as the population ages; and

WHEREAS, Chicago is home to world-class medical research organizations that focus on developing treatments and a possible cure for memory loss and Alzheimer's disease; and

WHEREAS, Great Lakes Clinical Trials is an internationally-recognized medical research clinic located on the north side of Chicago that is committed to providing free access to global research trials in the areas of memory loss and Alzheimer's disease to the community; and

WHEREAS, the Memory Care Coalition of Chicago is a non-profit community comprised of organizations, support groups, and healthcare providers, all of whom are dedicated to improving the quality of life for seniors and their caregivers in an effort to ensure that seniors receive the quality healthcare and support needed to face the challenges of memory loss; and

WHEREAS, the City of Chicago joins Great Lakes Clinical Trials and the Memory Care Coalition of Chicago in supporting the vision of the Alzheimer's Association, "A World Without Alzheimer's Disease"; and

WHEREAS, there are currently no treatments to prevent, or slow down the progression of Alzheimer's disease, and of over I 0,000 adults, 62% are worried that they may develop Alzheimer's disease and 91 % believe the solution to eradicating this disease lies in medical research, showing the importance and necessity of clinical research trails to develop such advances; and

WHEREAS, Great Lakes Clinical Trials and the Memory Care Coalition of Chicago are dedicated to raising awareness of Alzheimer's disease research and the importance of participation in clinical trials to find a cure, through community education:

NOW, THEREFORE, I, RAHM EMANUEL, MAYOR OF THE CITY OF CHICAGO, do hereby proclaim November 8, 2018 to be CHICAGO ALZHEIMER'S AWARENESS DAY in recognition of the tireless work and ongoing contributions of the research community in finding a cure for Alzheimer's disease. Dated this 25th day of September, 2018. 

#GLCT #ChicagoAlzDay2018

Digestive Health - Let’s talk about Constipation!

It’s ok to talk about constipation because we all have bowel movements!

Constipation happens when we experience hard to pass or infrequent bowel movements, hard or lumpy stools, or when our bowel movements leave us with the feeling of being incomplete. Irregular or difficult bowel habits can be uncomfortable, disruptive to our daily routines, and decrease our feeling of wellbeing. Added together constipation can affect our mood, decrease our comfort and restrict our quality of life.  In recent years there has been lots of media coverage and corporate advertising giving attention to gut-health including the use of pre- and pro-biotics.

The first step towards improving digestive health is understanding what is normal for you and that not everyone needs to have a bowel movement each day. Perceptions of constipation often vary based upon our own personal experience, family, and culture. While approximately 38% of the population reports symptoms of constipation it is normal for all of us to experience some of these symptoms from time to time depending on the foods we are eating.

In most cases constipation is a symptom, not a disease. Not eating enough fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can contribute to the symptoms of constipation. Often constipation can be managed through changes to your diet, drinking more fluids, and exercise. There are even some new and exciting natural health products that offer solutions to improve bowl health and regularity. 

At Great Lakes Clinical Trials, we study digestive function by researching various probiotics and prebiotics to understand the mechanisms by which they can improve gut bacteria while gently offering laxative effects. As an example kiwi fiber acts as a prebiotic promoting good gut bacteria. Additionally, research has shown kiwi fibers have the capacity to swell up to 12x greater than traditional wheat bran adding much needed bulk to stool. Actinidin, an enzyme found exclusively in green kiwifruit, acts to enhance the digestion of food proteins.

These supplements have the potential to offer naturally sourced alternatives to many traditional over the counter laxative treatments. Ideally laxatives should only be used occasionally as needed for short periods. Frequent and long-term use can have unforgiving repercussions on digestive health including resulting in laxative dependency. This may decrease the ability of the gut to function normally making the symptoms of constipation worse. Some types of laxatives can adversely interact with the medicines we require and/or disrupt normal electrolyte balance affecting several bodily functions including in the colon, heart, and nervous system.
 

If you’re interested in learning more about our digestion studies click the button below:

Great Lakes Clinical Trials to Initiate a Study for Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS)

In October, Great Lakes Clinical Trials will begin enrolling participants for a clinical trial in Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS), a dermatological condition found in 1-4% of all Americans.

The following information on HS is provided via the Mayo Clinic (mayoclinic.org):

Hidradenitis suppurativa usually appears as one or more red, tender bumps that fill with pus. It most commonly occurs in the armpits (shown), groin, between the buttocks and under the breasts

What is HS?

Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a long-term skin condition that features small, painful lumps under the skin. They typically develop where the skin rubs together, such as the armpits, the groin, between the buttocks and under the breasts. The lumps may break open and smell or cause tunnels under the skin.

HS tends to start after puberty. It can persist for many years and worsen over time, with serious effects on your daily life and emotional well-being. Early diagnosis and treatment can help manage the symptoms, keep new lumps from forming and prevent complications, such as scarring or depression.

Symptoms

HS commonly occurs around hair follicles with many oil and sweat glands, such as in the armpits, groin and anal area. It may also occur where skin rubs together, such as the inner thighs, under the breasts and between the buttocks. Hidradenitis suppurativa can affect one spot or multiple areas of the body.

Signs and symptoms of hidradenitis suppurativa include:

• Blackheads. Small pitted areas of skin containing blackheads — often appearing in pairs or a "double-barreled" pattern — are a common feature.

• Red, tender bumps. These bumps often enlarge, break open and drain pus. The drainage may have an odor. Itching and burning may accompany the bumps. They usually appear in areas where skin rubs against skin.

• Painful, pea-sized lumps. These hard lumps, which develop under the skin, may persist for years, enlarge and become inflamed.

• Tunnels. Over time, tracts connecting the lumps may form under the skin. These wounds heal very slowly, if at all, and can leak pus.

Hidradenitis suppurativa usually starts between puberty and age 40 with a single, painful bump that persists for weeks or months. For some people, the disease progressively worsens and affects multiple areas of their body. Other people experience only mild symptoms. Excess weight, stress, hormonal changes, heat or humidity can worsen symptoms. In women, the disease severity may lessen after menopause.

Causes

Hidradenitis suppurativa develops when hair follicles become blocked and inflamed. No one knows exactly why this blockage occurs. Factors that may play a role include hormones, metabolic syndrome, genetics, an irregular immune system response, smoking and excess weight.

Hidradenitis suppurativa is not caused by an infection and can't be transmitted sexually. It's not contagious and is not due to poor hygiene.

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Research

If you are interested in learning more about the HS Research Programs at Great Lakes Clinical Trials, you can provide your contact information by clicking the button below, and our team will reach out to you when the study is open for enrollment.

Crain’s Chicago Business Names Steve Satek One of Chicago’s Notable LGBTQ Executives

Chicago, IL – Great Lakes Clinical Trials Founder and President, Steve Satek, is one of Crain's Chicago Business’ Chicago's Notable LGBTQ Executives 2018.

Satek is being recognized for, among other things, his leadership at Great Lakes Clinical Trials which has greatly contributed to it being one of Chicago’s leading clinical research centers.  Great Lakes Clinical Trials was established on the principle of making clinical study opportunities more convenient and comfortable for patients.  This means providing easily accessible locations within neighborhood communities, including Andersonville and Arlington Heights, as well as creating a welcoming atmosphere to patients of all backgrounds, ages and sexual orientations.

Steve Satek, President
Great Lakes Clinical Trials 

Alzheimer’s disease and memory loss are key areas of research for Satek and the team at Great Lakes Clinical Trials. “In recent years we have made good progress towards a cure,” commented Mr. Satek. “There are often a lot of uncertainties in research, but one thing we know for sure is that we will never have a new medication to help treat or prevent Alzheimer’s disease without the participation of older adults in our current research trials.”

By 2030, there will be nearly five million adults aged 60 and older in the U.S. who identify as lesbian, gay, or bisexual.  As advanced age is a key risk factor or Alzheimer’s, Satek has created a community-based, LGBTQ-friendly center where volunteers and care partners can comfortably participate in clinical trials.

“At Great Lakes Clinical Trials, we are patient focused.  We do not see color, race, religion or sexual orientation, but rather we see neighbors, friends and our community,” added Satek.  “Diversity is one of the things I cherish most about growing up and living in the Chicago area.  We are all equals, and I could not be prouder to be recognized for the welcoming culture established at Great Lakes Clinical Trials.”

The research center led by Satek recently joined the Global Alzheimer’s Platform (GAP) Foundation’s invitation only national network of the leading clinical trial sites in Alzheimer’s research. On learning of the Crain’s announcement,  GAP’s president, John Dwyer said, “GAP congratulates Crain’s excellent judgement in selecting Steve as one of Chicago’s Notable LGBTQ Executives. Steve is one of the passionate, dedicated leaders in Alzheimer’s research and shares our commitment to providing access to Alzheimer’s clinical trials to anyone interested in finding a cure for this invidious disease--a disease that does not discriminate on the basis of sex, race, religion or sexual orientation.  Alzheimer’s research and Chicago are lucky to have Steve Satek and Great Lakes Clinical Trials in this fight; the recognition of his leadership is very much deserved.”

For more information about the ongoing research at Great Lakes Clinical Trials, visit: greatlakesclinicaltrials.com.

The announcement was made in Crain’s August 27th print edition as well as online at ChicagoBusiness.com.  This section profiles Chicago's notable LGBTQ executives, specifically those who are advancing their industries and/or workplace equality.

About Great Lakes Clinical Trials

Great Lakes Clinical Trials is an independent, community-based research clinic.  With two Chicago area locations in Andersonville and in Arlington Heights, the Great Lakes team have managed more than 525 clinical trials over the past 25 years and are committed to providing quality services for both study volunteers & the research industry. Great Lakes Clinical Trials specializes in the study of investigational medications, food products, devices and supplements for the treatment of chronic diseases, notably in Mental Health, Memory Disorders, Pain Management, Nutrition and Dermatology. For more information, please visit http://www.greatlakesclinicaltrials.com/.

Contact

To learn more or to inquire about interviews, please contact:
Steve Malito, Media Relations
Great Lakes Clinical Trials
Office: (773) 275-3500
Fax: (773) 275-3501
info@greatlakesclinicaltrials.com

Research Study for Memory Lapses

Is someone in your life starting to experience Memory Loss?

Great Lakes Clinical Trials - Arlington Heights is now seeking participants for a research study of older adults, ages 60-85, who are starting to experience memory loss, more than would be expected of normal aging.

The PERISCOPE-ALZ Study will examine if an investigational drug, may help to slow or stop memory loss.  There is no cost to participate. Participants will receive all study-related care from a research doctor at no cost and may be compensated per study site visit for time and travel expenses.

Who can join the PERISCOPE-ALZ Study? You may be able to take part if you:

• are 60–85 years of age
• have had memory loss for 6 months or more that has become gradually worse over time
• have a family member or close friend who is with you at least 10 hours per week and can attend study appointments with you.

All medical care, tests and medications are provided at no cost and insurance or Medicare is not required.  In addition, you may receive compensation for your participation.

If you are interested in joining this trial, visit http://www.greatlakesclinicaltrials.com/lmdc or click here.  Otherwise, you can call our center directly at (847) 301-7480 to speak with one of our staff today.

Great Lakes Supports August as Psoriasis Awareness Month

August is Psoriasis Awareness Month!  The National Psoriasis Foundation has taken the lead on promoting activities throughout the month, by sharing resources for treating and managing psoriatic disease to empower patients to take control of their own health. 

Great Lakes Clinical Trials is supporting these activities through our current clinical research programs in Psoriatic Arthritis and Psoriasis. 

• Our Psoriatic Arthritis research programs are lead by board-certified Rheumatologist, Manish Jain, MD.  Dr. Jain has been in practice for 9 years and is one of 3 doctors on staff at Presence St. Francis Hospital and one of 4 at Swedish Covenant Hospital who specialize in Rheumatology.  He received his medical degree from Rush Medical College and completed his Rheumatology Fellowship at New York University. 
   
• Our Psoriasis research programs are lead by board-certified Dermatologist, Ahmad Shatil Amin, MD.  Besides his research focus at Great Lakes Clinical Trials, Dr. Amin serves as Assistant Professor of Dermatology at Northwestern Memorial Hospital.  Dr, Amin earned his medical degree from University of North Carolina in 2008 and completed his Dermatology Residency University of North Carolina Hospitals in 2012.

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 Ahmad Shatil Amin, MD, Dermatologist

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Manish Jain, MD, Rheumatologist

If you are interested in joining the Great Lakes Clinical Trials research programs and gaining access to the latest investigative treatments, please fill out the short survey below.  All our services are provided at no cost, even free transportation services in some cases.  Appointments can typically be made within 1-3 days of contacting our center. 

Diabetes with High Triglycerides Research Study

Qualified volunteers may receive no-cost study drug with reimbursement for time & travel.

If you have Type 2 Diabetes and High Triglycerides, you may already have Fatty Liver Disease. Fatty Liver Disease can lead to liver cell damage, cirrhosis or liver cancer.

You may not be experiencing symptoms and you may not be overweight.

Local physicians are looking for participants with Diabetes and High Triglycerides for a research study to assess the effects of an investigational medicine on controlling diabetes, cholesterol and liver fat.

STEP 1: CALL 773.275.3500 TO SEE IF YOU PRE-QUALIFY
 In general, you must:

• Be 18-70 years of age
• Have Type 2 Diabetes
• Have High Triglycerides

Other criteria may apply

STEP 2: CLINIC VISIT FOR FATTY LIVER ASSESSMENT
To proceed, we need to know whether you have fatty liver, via a 5 minute ultrasound test at our clinic. Other tests will also be performed at this visit.

STEP 3: PARTICIPATION
If qualified and you choose to enroll, you will receive:

• Investigational medication
• Study-related care from our board-certified physicians
• Compensation for your time and travel

Call our center directly at (773) 275-3500 to speak with one of our staff today