Sioux Falls, S.D. – Residents living with Crohn’s disease now have a local pathway to potentially life‑changing treatments. The Sanford Health gastroenterology team announced that clinical trials for the chronic digestive condition will be conducted right here in Sioux Falls, eliminating the need for patients to travel hundreds of miles to distant referral centers.
Why the trials matter for South Dakota families
Crohn’s disease causes inflammation throughout the digestive tract, leading to abdominal pain, frequent bathroom trips, fatigue and a host of daily challenges. For many, finding an effective therapy is a long, exhausting journey. “During those eight years, it was a big struggle to go about my life. Rarely did I want to leave the house,” said Tyler Kraft, an electrical engineer who has lived with the disease since his early twenties.
Kraft described how the condition limited his favorite pastimes, from hunting and fishing to woodworking. “I didn’t have the strength to do any woodworking anymore. I spent a lot of my evenings just at home sitting on the couch, because I couldn’t do anything more,” he explained.
Local doctors highlight early‑access benefits
Dr. Ahmed Kurdi, a gastroenterologist at Sanford, emphasized that offering trials in Sioux Falls represents a historic step for the state. “The fact that we’re offering clinical trials in Sioux Falls — and this is the first time that we’re doing this at the level of the state of South Dakota — really offers our patients early access to these treatments, where they don’t have to travel long distances to other referral centers,” he said.
Patients who enroll will be closely monitored by the research team, ensuring safety while exploring new therapeutic options. Dr. Kurdi added that participants’ willingness to advance research can pave the way for future patients who face similar struggles.
Patient perspective on choosing to fight
Despite the hardships, Kraft remains resolute. “I made the choice. I’m happy with my choice. And now it’s my job to defend that choice,” he affirmed, expressing hope that his involvement might inspire others battling the disease.
He also wants fellow sufferers to know they are not alone. “I hope others facing the same challenges know they are not alone,” Kraft said, underscoring the community aspect of the trials.
What the trials involve
The studies will evaluate novel medications and therapeutic approaches designed to reduce inflammation and improve quality of life. Participants will undergo regular assessments, lab work and imaging as required by the trial protocols. While the exact treatments being tested were not disclosed, Dr. Kurdi assured that all investigational drugs have passed rigorous safety reviews before reaching the trial phase.
Eligibility criteria include a confirmed diagnosis of Crohn’s disease, a history of moderate to severe symptoms, and the ability to attend scheduled visits at the Sanford clinic. Interested patients are encouraged to contact the gastroenterology department for screening and enrollment details.
Community impact
Bringing these trials to Sioux Falls not only benefits individual patients but also strengthens South Dakota’s role in national medical research. Local participation can contribute valuable data that may influence future treatment guidelines nationwide.
For families coping with Crohn’s disease, the new trials represent a beacon of hope and a tangible step toward regaining control over daily life.
Original reporting: Dakota News Now KSFY Sioux Falls (local) — read the source article.
