February is American Heart Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about cardiovascular health and empowering individuals to take steps toward a healthier future. Heart disease remains the leading cause of death in the United States — but the good news is that many cardiovascular conditions, including high blood pressure, are manageable with early intervention, lifestyle changes, and innovative medical research.
At Florida Institute for Clinical Research, we’re proud to be part of the solution — advancing medical knowledge through clinical trials focused on high blood pressure and cardiovascular risk factors.
Why Heart Health Matters
High blood pressure (hypertension) is often called the “silent killer” because it frequently presents no obvious symptoms. Left untreated, it significantly increases the risk of:
- Heart attack
- Stroke
- Heart failure
- Kidney disease
- Peripheral artery disease
According to the American Heart Association, nearly half of U.S. adults have high blood pressure — and many don’t even know it. American Heart Month is a reminder to check your numbers, understand your risk, and take action.
The Role of Clinical Trials in Advancing Heart Care
Clinical trials are essential to developing new treatments and improving existing therapies for cardiovascular disease. Every breakthrough medication, device, and guideline we rely on today was made possible because individuals volunteered to participate in research.
At Florida Institute for Clinical Research, ongoing studies are evaluating new approaches to:
- Improve blood pressure control
- Reduce cardiovascular risk
- Prevent heart attack and stroke
- Enhance long-term heart health outcomes
These studies help physicians better understand how to manage hypertension and related risk factors — especially in patients who may not respond well to current therapies.
Who May Qualify?
You may be eligible to participate in a cardiovascular clinical trial if you:
- Have been diagnosed with high blood pressure
- Have additional cardiovascular risk factors (such as diabetes, high cholesterol, or a family history of heart disease)
- Are interested in contributing to research that may benefit future patients
Participation typically includes study-related medical care, close health monitoring, and access to investigational treatments at no cost. Compensation for time and travel may also be available.
Why Participate?
Participating in a clinical trial offers several potential benefits:
- Access to new investigational treatment
- Comprehensive health evaluations
- Close monitoring by experienced medical professionals
- The opportunity to contribute to medical advancements that may save lives
Most importantly, participants play a vital role in shaping the future of heart care.
Small Steps, Big Impact: Heart-Healthy Habits
In addition to exploring research opportunities, American Heart Month is the perfect time to recommit to heart-healthy habits:
- Monitor your blood pressure regularly
- Maintain a balanced, heart-healthy diet
- Stay physically active
- Manage stress
- Quit smoking
- Follow your doctor’s treatment plan
Even small changes can make a meaningful difference.
Be Part of the Future of Heart Health
This American Heart Month, consider taking a proactive step — not only for your own health but for the health of your community. By participating in a clinical trial at Florida Institute for Clinical Research, you can help drive innovation in cardiovascular care.
If you or a loved one has high blood pressure or cardiovascular risk factors, now is the time to learn more.
Contact Florida Institute for Clinical Research today to see if you qualify for one of our heart health clinical trials.
Together, we can build a healthier future — one heartbeat at a time.