Living with Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)—which includes Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis—can be an overwhelming journey. From unpredictable flare-ups and dietary restrictions to fatigue and emotional stress, IBD affects far more than just the digestive tract.

While there have been significant advancements in treatment over the last two decades, many patients still struggle to find relief, especially when traditional therapies fail to deliver lasting results.

But there is hope.

At Spoke Research, clinical trials are opening doors to new treatment possibilities, offering IBD patients a path toward relief, resilience, and better quality of life.

In this blog post, we’ll explore the challenges IBD patients face, why clinical trials matter more than ever, and how Spoke Research is helping bridge the gap between struggle and solution through innovative research.

🔍 Understanding the Struggles of Living with IBD

IBD is a chronic autoimmune condition characterized by inflammation in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. Both Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis can cause severe abdominal pain, diarrhea, rectal bleeding, weight loss, fatigue, and joint pain. The severity of symptoms varies from person to person and can fluctuate unpredictably over time.

For many patients, managing IBD means:

• Juggling multiple medications with varying side effects
• Undergoing regular colonoscopies and bloodwork
• Facing nutritional deficiencies and restricted diets
• Missing work or school due to flares
• Navigating anxiety, depression, and isolation

While biologic therapies and immunosuppressants have transformed care for many, not everyone responds to these treatments. Some develop resistance over time, while others experience serious side effects. For this group—often referred to as refractory IBD patients—the search for relief becomes increasingly urgent.

💡 Why Clinical Trials Matter

Clinical trials play a critical role in advancing the science of IBD care. These research studies test new treatments, therapies, or strategies in a safe, structured environment to determine their effectiveness and safety.

For IBD patients, clinical trials can offer access to innovative medications before they are widely available and help build the foundation for more personalized, effective care.

Key reasons why clinical trials are important:

• They offer new hope for patients who haven’t responded to current therapies
• They allow scientists to better understand the disease mechanisms
• They contribute to the development of targeted, less toxic treatment options
• They provide comprehensive medical oversight and specialized care

At a time when IBD diagnoses are increasing globally, clinical research is not just about discovering new medications—it’s about delivering new options for real people living with daily challenges.

🧬 Meet Spoke Research: A Partner in Progress

Based in South Africa, Spoke Research is a dynamic clinical research organization specializing in IBD trials, particularly those for Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis.

Led by experienced clinical investigators Dr. Gosia George and Dr. Eduan Deetlefs, Spoke Research has become a trusted name in the field of digestive disease research since 2017.

What sets Spoke Research apart?

✅ Focus on Patient-Centered Research

Spoke Research doesn’t just test treatments—they build relationships with the patients they serve. From the first screening visit to final follow-up, the team prioritizes communication, education, and comfort.

“Our goal isn’t just to run trials,” says Dr. George. “It’s to walk alongside patients in their journey—to give them hope, options, and expert care at every step.”

✅ Expertise in IBD

IBD is a complex, evolving condition that requires a specialized understanding of immunology, gastroenterology, and patient psychology. Dr. Deetlefs and Dr. George bring years of hands-on experience treating IBD in clinical practice, which informs their approach to research.

✅ Access to Global Research Networks

Spoke Research participates in internationally recognized studies, collaborating with leading pharmaceutical companies and academic institutions. This means that patients in their region can access cutting-edge treatments that are part of global efforts to improve IBD care.

👩‍⚕️ Who Should Consider an IBD Clinical Trial?

Clinical trials are designed for various patient profiles, and not all are limited to individuals with severe or advanced disease. You may be a good candidate for an IBD clinical trial if you:

• Have moderate to severe Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis
• Have tried standard therapies without lasting success
• Are interested in accessing new treatment options
• Want to contribute to future research and treatment development

Some trials also focus on newly diagnosed patients or those in remission, aiming to improve long-term outcomes or prevent flare-ups.

🔄 From Struggle to Solution: The Patient Experience

So what does participating in a clinical trial at Spoke Research actually involve?

Let’s walk through a typical patient journey:

1. Application & Pre-Screening

Patients can apply online or be referred by their gastroenterologist. The Spoke Research team conducts a pre-screening assessment to determine initial eligibility.

2. Screening Visit
   Patients undergo a more comprehensive evaluation, including medical history review, lab tests, and sometimes imaging or endoscopy. If eligible, they are enrolled in the study.

    

3. Treatment Phase

Participants receive either the investigational treatment or a placebo, depending on the study design. However, many IBD trials provide add-on treatments or ensure that all participants receive a form of active care.

4. Monitoring & Support

Throughout the study, patients have regular check-ins, lab tests, and progress evaluations. Any side effects are closely monitored, and adjustments can be made as needed.

5. Post-Trial Follow-Up

Even after the study ends, participants often continue with regular follow-up visits. The team at Spoke Research ensures continuity of care and a smooth transition back to standard treatment if needed.

💬 Real Voices: Testimonials from Spoke Research Participants

“I had tried every medication available and was losing hope. Joining a trial at Spoke was the best decision I made. The care was top-tier, and I felt heard.”
— Lungile, 29, Crohn’s disease patient

“I didn’t know what to expect from a clinical trial, but the team explained everything clearly. I got access to a new treatment that finally worked.”
— Michael, 42, ulcerative colitis patient

🤝 Why Trust Matters

For many patients, the idea of joining a clinical trial can feel intimidating. Concerns about safety, side effects, and the unknown are valid. That’s why trust and transparency are at the heart of what Spoke Research does.

Participants are:

• Fully informed through the informed consent process
• Encouraged to ask questions and bring concerns at any time
• Free to withdraw from the study at any point without penalty
• Treated with respect, compassion, and confidentiality

Dr. George emphasizes, “Clinical trials are about partnership. We don’t just treat patients—we empower them.”

📌 Why Now Is the Time to Act

Whether you’ve been newly diagnosed with IBD or have been managing it for years, participating in a clinical trial could be a life-changing step. With winter giving way to new beginnings, there’s no better time to explore your options.

At Spoke Research, ongoing IBD trials are recruiting participants who are ready to reclaim control over their health and make a meaningful impact on the future of digestive care.

✅ Ready to Learn More?

📞 Interested in Participating in a Clinical Trial?

Dr. Gosia George and Dr. Eduan Deetlefs lead local IBD clinical trials at Spoke Research Inc.
Since 2017, they’ve helped countless patients access innovative treatments and expert care.

👉 Apply for a Crohn’s Disease Trial
👉 Apply for an Ulcerative Colitis Trial

Visit www.spokeresearch.co.za  or call 021 531 6402 to learn more and take the first step toward better gut health this winter.

✨ Final Thoughts

From daily discomfort to the emotional toll of living with a chronic condition, IBD can feel like an uphill battle. But with the right support, education, and access to emerging treatments, patients can move from struggle to solution.

Spoke Research is leading the charge in redefining IBD care—one trial, one treatment, and one patient at a time.