The University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS) recently became the first medical institution in the state to join the National Institutes of Health StrokeNet, which will make new potential treatments available for patients with stroke and those at risk for stroke.
NIH StrokeNet is made up of 25 regional centers across the United States and involves more than 200 hospitals in conducting small and large clinical trials and research studies to advance stroke treatment, stroke prevention, and recovery and rehabilitation following a stroke.
“Underserved patients in Arkansas and the region will have improved access to research opportunities that might benefit them because UAMS is now a part of the StrokeNet,” said Krishna Nalleballe, MD, UAMS stroke neurologist.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Arkansas ranks seventh among states in deaths by stroke after many years in first place. Stroke also was the fifth leading cause of death in Arkansas in 2017, claiming more than 1,600 lives that year.
StrokeNet also serves as an educational platform for stroke physicians and clinical trial coordinators, which is important for ensuring Arkansas healthcare professionals are up to date on best practices and other changes in stroke care. Through its educational efforts, the network provides a trainee program and webinars focused on stroke, research methods, and professional development.