Advancing multi-database cohort studies: lessons learned from a studyathon in a pharmaceutical company

Abstract Objectives To evaluate the feasibility and applicability of the studyathon format within a pharmaceutical company setting for generating reliable real-world evidence rapidly for a business-relevant research question. Materials and methods Conducted at Bayer, the studyathon assessed recurrent events following a first-ever transient ischemic attack. It involved an 8-week preparatory phase, a 1-week execution phase, and a 3-week post-event phase, using multiple real-world data sources. Results The studyathon concluded successfully with a conference abstract submission. Key learnings included the importance of defining precise research questions, organizational alignment, thorough preparation, and leveraging diverse expertise and skill sets. Discussion The studyathon format proved suited for a pharmaceutical setting and revealed insights into its application. Our learnings highlight differences from multi-stakeholder community studyathons. Conclusion The studyathon demonstrated its potential as a valuable research approach within a pharmaceutical company. It improved study timelines and cross-functional collaboration while preserving scientific rigor.