Facility to offer top-class research

A research facility at a Cork City hospital will engage in world-class research initiatives and allow patients to take part in clinical trials as well as access the latest advances in treatment.

The Health Research Board (HRB) clinical research facility at the Mercy University Hospital is providing 10 jobs and will focus on advancing the understanding of and improving treatment in areas such as cancer, heart disease, bowel disease and nutrition.

Health Minister James Reilly, who officially opened the unit, said it was an important day for Cork and the country.

“The opening of this facility represents a strong commitment to research. It will provide a way for clinicians and key partners to test innovative therapies, techniques and products to the benefit of patients,” he said.

Researchers at the facility will work closely with UCC researchers to study the causes and determinants of illness and disability in the general population.

This work will include:

* A European-funded trial (The Trust study) which will examine whether treating patients with a mildly underactive thyroid will reduce their subsequent risk of heart disease.

* A study to find a better way to quantify dietary intakes and the association of novel dietary risk factors, such as phosphate, with circulatory problems in primary care patients.

* An investigation into health issues within specific sections of the population.

Joe Eustace, director of the facility, said it would allow scientists in UCC to work with clinicians at the Mercy and Cork University Hospital, as well as with primary care physicians, to conduct patient-focused research.