The longest-running US trial of cardiovascular disease has seen its funding slashed by 40%, and while theFramingham Heart Study (FHS) is still open and ongoing, there will be layoffs later this year and clinical examinations and laboratory activities will be eliminated.
The reason for the cutbacks is the automatic funding cuts that went into place as a result of the US government sequestration. In a typical year, the FHS receives approximately $9 million per year from the government through its contract with the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI). However, the funding will be reduced by $4 million in the coming years, a 40% reduction. In addition, 19 administrative and clinical posts are expected to be chopped.
