DALLAS — April 20, 2006 — Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center are seeking patients to participate in medical studies on bladder cancer detection, healthy blood donors and depression. All clinical trials are approved by UT Southwestern's Institutional Review Board, which reviews them for benefits, risks, side effects and informed consent.

Bladder cancer detection
UT Southwestern Medical Center researchers are enrolling patients for a study using a simple urine test to detect early-stage bladder cancer in order to improve survival. Bladder cancer is the fourth most prevalent cancer in males and the ninth most prevalent in females. Eligible participants must be older than 50 and have either smoked a pack of cigarettes per day for more than 10 years, or have had more than 10 years of environmental or occupational exposure — such as firefighters and workers in the dye, petroleum or chemical industries. For more information, call Allison Ahrens at 214-645-8787.

Blood donors
A study at UT Southwestern Medical Center is seeking healthy participants for comparative blood samples. People between the ages of 18 and 75 with no histories of autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus or diabetes are needed. Researchers will use the collected samples to compare with patients who have autoimmune disorders. Compensation is available. Please call 214-648-9111 for more information.

Depression
Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center are studying the combination of two medications as a front-line treatment for depression. Patients must be between 18 and 65 years of age who are currently experiencing depression. Study participants may have other general medical conditions and be taking other medications. Study medication is provided at no charge. If enrolled, there are eight required return visits to the clinic in a three-month period for evaluation.  Each return visit lasts about 30 minutes. For more information please call 214-648-4622 or 214-648-4625.

More clinical trials

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Media Contact: Katherine Morales
214-648-3404
e-mail: katherine.morales@utsouthwestern.edu

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