Caguas, Puerto Rico – Stroke remains a critical public health issue in Puerto Rico, representing the leading cause of long-term disability on the island. The high prevalence of risk factors, combined with significant mortality rates and healthcare disparities, underscores the urgent need for improved diagnostic and treatment strategies.
One of the most time-sensitive and dangerous forms of stroke is Large Vessel Occlusion (LVO). Rapid identification of LVO is essential, as timely intervention—such as mechanical thrombectomy—can drastically reduce long-term disability and improve patient outcomes.
Upfront Diagnostics, in collaboration with Hospital Menonita Caguas, Inc., is launching a pioneering clinical study to evaluate its novel stroke blood test, LVOne. The study, titled COPILOT, will assess the clinical effectiveness of LVOne in patients presenting with suspected stroke. The trial, which has received IRB approval, is ready to commence and will run for a minimum of 24 months. It represents a major milestone for stroke care in Puerto Rico and potentially around the world.
Dr. Juan C. Vicenty Padilla, who will serve as Principal Investigator, stated:
“This is important work for Puerto Ricans and the global community. We are proud to drive this disruptive trial forward.”
Dr. Joshua Bernstock, Chief Medical Director at Upfront Diagnostics, added:
“This clinical study could open the door to transforming stroke management globally. We’re thrilled to see LVOne’s impact in real-world clinical settings.”
Dr. Rodolfo Alcedo-Guardia, Co-Investigator and Chairman of Neurosurgery at Hospital Menonita, emphasized the urgency:
“Stroke is a colossal problem, and many patients go untreated simply because we can’t diagnose them in time. This technology will change that.”
About Upfront Diagnostics
Founded in Cambridge, UK in 2017, Upfront Diagnostics is redefining emergency stroke care through innovative point-of-care technology. The company’s flagship product, LVOne, is a rapid blood test that can distinguish stroke types in minutes—anytime, anywhere. Compact and portable, LVOne enables earlier diagnosis, facilitating timely treatment and saving lives when every second counts.
About Hospital Menonita Caguas, Inc
Hospital Menonita Caguas has revolutionized stroke care in Puerto Rico. It is currently the only stroke center on the island offering year-round, 24/7 stroke coverage, providing critical, life-saving services to nearly three million U.S. citizens. The hospital is also home to a comprehensive neuroscience group, uniting experts across multiple specialties to deliver state-of-the-art care for complex neurological conditions. In its continued commitment to innovation, Hospital Menonita Caguas is proud to advance stroke care globally with the aid of LVOne—a transformative technology that enables rapid, accessible stroke diagnosis, even in the most remote settings. Together, we are setting new standards for timely and equitable stroke care around the world.
