One Visit, One Life Saved: A Houston Patient’s Story

He felt completely fine, no chest pain, no fatigue, no shortness of breath. Just a little high blood pressure he thought he had under control.

But when a 50-year-old Houston resident walked into Synergy Groups Medical to join a free hypertension clinical trial, he had no idea that one test would uncover life-threatening heart damage.

“His ejection fraction was just 35% that’s a sign of heart failure,” explained Dr. Ajani, Principal Investigator at Synergy Groups Medical.
“If he hadn’t come in for the trial, he may not be here today.”

That single test offered free as part of Synergy’s standard protocol led to early intervention and, eventually, improved heart function. After one year in the study, his ejection fraction rose to 45%, potentially saving his life.

Why Clinical Trials Are More Than Research

At Synergy Groups Medical, clinical trials go far beyond testing medications they offer life saving opportunities for early detection, diagnosis, and free treatment.

Each trial participant receives:

• Comprehensive medical screening

• Bloodwork

• EKGs

• Physical exams

• Health history reviews

This careful process has uncovered undiagnosed heart disease, kidney problems, and lung abnormalities in people who felt completely healthy.

“We’re not just studying medicine we’re finding solutions,” says Dr. Ajani.

Hypertension: A Silent But Deadly Risk

Nearly 1 in 2 adults in the U.S. have high blood pressure. Many have no symptoms until serious damage occurs.

At Synergy, a hypertension clinical trial offers:

• Free blood pressure and kidney screenings

• Heart function evaluations

• Access to investigational or FDA-approved treatments

• Close monitoring by research professionals

• Compensation for time and travel

You don’t have to feel sick to qualify and early detection could change everything.

The Hidden Dangers of High Blood Pressure

Unchecked high blood pressure can cause:

• Heart damage (heart failure, enlarged heart, heart attack)

• Kidney disease or failure

• Strokes, memory problems

• Vision loss or eye vessel damage

This is what makes free research screenings critical. Even if you feel fine, your body could be under silent attack.

Why Clinical Research Matters in Houston & Missouri City

Black and Hispanic communities, especially in urban areas like Houston and Missouri City, are disproportionately affected by:

• High blood pressure

• Diabetes

• Chronic kidney disease

Many lack access to:

• Primary care

• Early screenings

• Affordable medications

• Preventative services

That’s where Synergy Groups Medical comes in bridging the gap with free, accessible, and trusted research-backed care.

Dr. Ajani: Three Decades of Medical Progress Through Trials

“I started in clinical trials in 1992,” says Dr. Ajani.

“Back then, we didn’t have many medications for diabetes. But over the years, I’ve participated in over 13 diabetes trials. Now, we have treatments that not only control blood sugar—but also help the kidneys, protect the heart, and reduce blood pressure.”

These breakthroughs don’t just help individuals they have nationwide economic impact, reducing the disease burden on families, communities, and future generations.

What Other Conditions Does Synergy Study?

In addition to hypertension, Synergy Groups Medical conducts free clinical research for:

• Type 2 Diabetes

• Prediabetes

• High Cholesterol & Triglycerides

• Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)

• Obesity & Metabolic Syndrome

Every study is designed to improve care and create future-ready treatments for Houston and Missouri City residents.

Who Can Participate in a Study?

You may qualify if you:

• Are between 18–85 years old, (criteria vary, from study to study)

• Have high blood pressure, diabetes, or high cholesterol

• Aren’t responding to your current medications

• Don’t have health insurance

• Live in the Houston or Missouri City area

Pre-screening is free, quick, and easy. Call (832) 532-4210 to get more information on the specific criteria for each study.

Why People Trust Synergy Groups Medical

• 20+ years of experience in medical research

• Culturally competent staff who speak your language

• Three Houston-area locations for convenience

• Dedicated to underserved and minority communities

• Low-cost clinic referrals after trials end

• Tenured and experience staff

“We help people beyond the trial,” says Dr. Ajani.

“We connect them to care, resources, and support for life.”

Take the First Step, It Could Save Your Life

Whether you're managing chronic illness or simply curious about your health, our team is ready to help you find out more.

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FAQs About Clinical Trials at Synergy

Q: What’s the difference between a clinical trial and regular doctor visits?
A: Trials involve advanced, highly monitored care, including frequent lab testing and early intervention opportunities.

Q: Do I need insurance?
A: No. All care and testing are 100% free.

Q: Is there payment for participating?
A: Yes, participants are compensated for their time and travel.

Q: Is it safe?
A: Yes. All studies are FDA-regulated and approved by independent ethics boards.

Q: Can I still see my regular doctor?
A: Absolutely. Our trials complement your care, not replace it.