A retired Darlington GP has spoken of his pride in being part of one of the UK’s most significant cardiovascular research studies, as his involvement nears completion.
Dr Clive Cannon, a long-serving local doctor, is among more than 16,000 participants enrolled in the ORION-4 clinical trial - a major research project led by the University of Oxford and supported locally by the County Durham and Darlington NHS Foundation Trust (CDDFT) Research and Innovation Team.
The ORION-4 study is exploring whether inclisiran, a new cholesterol-lowering injection, can safely reduce the risk of heart attacks and strokes in individuals with a history of cardiovascular disease.
Participants in the double-blind trial receive either inclisiran or a placebo, neither they nor their clinicians know which treatment they have been given.
Each participant is monitored over a five-year period to ensure robust and unbiased results.
A Life in Medicine, A Legacy in Research
For Dr Cannon, joining the trial was a natural extension of his lifelong commitment to improving patient care.
“Being part of this study has been my way of giving something back,” he said. “I’ve always believed in the power of research to shape better treatments, and it’s been a privilege to contribute.”
Recently, Dr Cannon joined fellow trial participants at a thank-you event held at Darlington Arena, where Professor Louise Bowman from the University of Oxford shared promising early updates on the study’s progress.
A Collective Effort With Lasting Impact
The contribution of volunteers like Dr Cannon is at the heart of what makes medical breakthroughs possible. Clare Brady, Clinical Research Nurse at CDDFT, expressed her gratitude:
“We’re incredibly grateful to Clive and all our participants. Their commitment is helping drive forward research that could benefit thousands, not just here in Darlington, but around the world.”
Get Involved: Be Part of Research
The ORION-4 trial is just one of many opportunities for people to play an active role in shaping the future of healthcare.
Be Part of Research is a free UK-wide service that connects individuals with clinical trials based on their health and interests. It forms part of the NHS 10-Year Plan’s ambition to increase public involvement in life-changing research.
To learn more or explore how you can get involved, visit the Be Part of Research website or contact the CDDFT Research and Innovation Team directly.
Thank you to Dr Clive Cannon and all those taking part in the ORION-4 trial and research trials across CDDFT, your dedication is helping build a healthier tomorrow.
