Cardiovascular Disease Prevention

Researchers are investigating whether a multifactorial lifestyle intervention involving a Mediterranean diet with reduced calories and increased physical activity can help middle-aged adults (30-50 years) with metabolic syndrome lose weight and maintain that weight loss over time. The study also aims to understand the social and demographic challenges people face in sticking to these healthy habits and to examine the lifestyle patterns of this group. Participants will be randomly assigned to one of two groups. One group will follow general lifestyle recommendations from primary healthcare providers, while the other will receive an intensive program that includes monthly individual and group sessions over 6 months to encourage a Mediterranean diet with 25% fewer calories and physical activity based on WHO guidelines. The goal for the intervention group is to reduce their initial weight by 5-10% within 6 months and maintain this loss after 12 months. Throughout the study, participants will undergo assessments including measurements of weight, waist size, blood sugar, triglycerides, and glycated hemoglobin to monitor changes in their health. Data on demographics, diet, clinical parameters, and laboratory tests will be collected. After the 6-month intervention, a follow-up at 12 months will evaluate how well participants maintain their lifestyle changes. The study emphasizes tracking adherence and identifying factors that help or hinder long-term weight loss maintenance.

This research investigates the relationship between serum levels of statins and SGLT2 inhibitors (SGLT2i) when used together in patients with ischemic heart failure. The study aims to understand how these drugs affect cholesterol, LDL, HDL, and triglyceride levels over time. Conducted by Fayoum University's Department of Cardiology, this prospective study involves 90 outpatient participants diagnosed with ischemic heart disease. Participants are divided into three groups of 30 each: one group takes statins, another takes SGLT2i, and the third group takes both medications. Blood samples are collected at the start and after three months to measure serum statin and plasma SGLT2i levels using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Researchers monitor the impact of each drug on the other and track changes in lipid profiles and any adverse effects. During the study, patients provide informed consent and attend scheduled visits for blood sampling and laboratory tests. The main outcome is to evaluate the combined effect of statin and SGLT2i therapy on ischemic heart disease after three months. Safety and side effects are also observed. The study spans from April to July 2024, ensuring detailed monitoring of participants' responses to the treatments.

Researchers are conducting the 100-Year Human Aging Study, an observational trial designed to follow participants over their lifespans to investigate which health measurements can predict mortality, serious diseases, and functional disability. The study aims to validate many longevity measures that currently lack prospective evidence by tracking physiological, cognitive, social, and environmental factors that change with aging. This research will generate important data to improve understanding of aging and longevity medicine. Participants undergo comprehensive multi-system clinical screenings including tests like cardiopulmonary exercise testing, body composition assessment by DEXA, echocardiography, electrocardiography, spirometry, neurocognitive testing, sensory assessments, metabolic testing, and detailed medical and social histories. The study allows for different levels of participation, from single tests to full two-visit screening batteries, and encourages repeat testing to capture health changes over time. During the study, participants receive individualized reports including investigational estimates of biological age and predicted cause of death. Researchers collect data on mortality, serious health events, chronic diseases, functional ability, and lifestyle changes through periodic follow-up over many years, potentially up to 100 years. This extensive data collection helps evaluate how well these measurements predict aging outcomes. All data are stored in raw form for future analysis and participants are supported with ongoing contact and opportunities for repeat assessments.

Researchers are evaluating the effect of a personalized exercise plan based on cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPET) for people with metabolic syndrome. The study aims to see if this individualized high-intensity interval training (HIIT) can reduce cardiovascular and metabolic risks in this population. The trial is designed to validate how well the exercise prescription improves health outcomes related to metabolic cardiovascular diseases. Participants are randomly assigned to one of two groups. One group receives supervised individualized HIIT guided by CPET three times a week for 24 weeks, with exercise prescriptions adjusted after 12 weeks based on testing results. They also receive guidance on healthy dietary habits. The control group receives only guidance on healthy diet and exercise methods and can choose to start HIIT or home training after 24 weeks. Throughout the study, participants undergo various assessments including CPET, inspiratory muscle strength tests, and measurements of biochemical, metabolic, and physical indicators like waist and hip circumference. The main outcome measured is the change in a composite cardiovascular disease risk score over approximately two years. Safety and health improvements are monitored during the study and follow-up periods.

Researchers are evaluating how a combined program of aerobic and resistance exercises along with cognitive training affects brain function in older adults aged 60 and above. The study focuses on people who are sedentary and may or may not have cardiovascular risk factors like diabetes, high blood pressure, or high cholesterol, conditions known to impact memory and attention. This trial aims to compare the effects of physical exercise alone versus combined physical and cognitive training on thinking skills and brain health. The trial includes three groups: one group will do both cognitive and physical training, another will do only aerobic and resistance exercises, and the third group will perform stretching and toning exercises as an active control. Each group participates in three sessions per week for 46 weeks, with options to train at home or at a center. The physical exercise sessions include warm-up, moderate to vigorous aerobic activity monitored by heart rate, and resistance training, while cognitive training involves computer-based memory and attention tasks. Participants will undergo assessments at the start and after 12 months to measure changes in general cognition, processing speed, executive functions, and memory. Brain imaging and blood flow measures will also be evaluated to observe changes in brain structure and function. Throughout the study, participants will be monitored for exercise intensity and adherence. The total study duration covers 12 months, with safety and cognitive outcomes closely tracked to understand the impact of these interventions.

Researchers are addressing racial disparities in colorectal cancer (CRC) by focusing on African Americans aged 45 to 75, who face higher CRC incidence and mortality and lower screening rates. The study aims to improve CRC screening by partnering with the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to recruit 1,200 African American participants during their DMV visits. The research compares two approaches to increase screening: on-site distribution of Fecal Immunochemical Test (FIT) kits and on-site distribution combined with targeted social media advertising. Participants will receive a free FIT kit with a prepaid return envelope, a culturally tailored educational brochure, reminder text messages, and phone calls. The social media group will see targeted ads on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube from August to October 2024. Participants return kits to a Nebraska Medicine lab, and results are mailed within 14 to 21 days. For those with positive results or lacking insurance or a primary care provider, a health navigator provides help with scheduling follow-up colonoscopies and accessing financial support. Throughout the study, participants provide demographic and screening information via surveys. Researchers measure FIT kit return rates, positive test rates, and follow-up colonoscopy completion rates, comparing the two groups while considering factors like age, gender, income, and health beliefs. Participants' perceptions about screening are also gathered through an online survey. The study runs until October 2026, with ongoing monitoring of screening completion and follow-up outcomes.

Researchers are evaluating how supportive environments, policies, and practices in licensed childcare centers in British Columbia (BC) can increase physical activity and motor skills among children aged 2.5 to 6 years. The study builds on provincial Active Play Standards and the Appetite to Play program, aiming to assess the impact of an enhanced intervention called Appetite to Play + that supports childcare providers in sustaining active play best practices. The Appetite to Play + intervention includes advanced training for childcare managers and staff through workshops and e-learning modules focused on physical literacy, fundamental movement skills, and creating supportive environments for active play and healthy eating. Childcare centers participating in the study are randomized to either receive this intervention immediately or after a 3-month waitlist period, with the control group having access to standard Appetite to Play materials. Participants, including childcare managers, staff, and children, will be involved in baseline and follow-up assessments up to 6 months post-intervention. Researchers will measure changes in active play practices at childcare centers and children's motor skill development, along with characteristics of childcare settings and providers. The study includes questionnaires, observations, and data collection at multiple time points to monitor adherence and outcomes throughout the trial.

Researchers are observing patients at preventive cardiology clinics to better understand how cardiovascular risk assessment tools can be used most effectively. The study aims to explore how these tools influence the risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) and related outcomes, focusing on both primary and secondary prevention. This ongoing research collects data to help clinicians develop personalized, effective treatment plans by combining individual risk factors. The study involves adult patients attending the National Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases (NICVD) in Karachi, Pakistan. It gathers detailed information such as demographic data, physical exams, clinical history, risk modifications, laboratory tests, and risk scores like the ASCVD and WHO Cardiovascular Risk scores. These assessments are recorded at the first visit and during follow-ups to track changes over time. Participants provide verbal consent and are followed over a long period, with data collection continuing regularly. Researchers analyze this information to measure cardiovascular risk over ten years, changes in risk levels, and cardiovascular-related deaths. The study uses structured questionnaires and statistical methods to evaluate the findings, aiming to contribute valuable insights into cardiovascular disease prevention and management.

Researchers are evaluating the effects of a smartphone-based Healthy Lifestyle (HLS) intervention on the mental and physical health of firefighters in Tainan, Taiwan. This cluster randomized controlled trial aims to determine if the Traditional Chinese version of the HLS mobile app can improve firefighters' health compared to usual care. The study also seeks to find out whether the intervention can promote a healthier lifestyle and reduce the risk of chronic non-communicable diseases among firefighters. Participants will be randomly assigned to either the intervention group, which uses the Traditional Chinese HLS mobile app designed specifically for firefighters, or the control group, which receives usual care. The intervention period lasts from 3 to 6 months, during which firefighters in the intervention group will use the app to support healthier behaviors. The control group will continue with their standard practices without the app. Throughout the study, firefighters will undergo health and fitness assessments at the start and again 3 to 6 months after the intervention begins. Measurements include blood pressure, depressive symptoms, PTSD symptoms, body mass index, smoking habits, diet patterns, physical activity levels, sitting time, sleep duration and napping frequency, glycated hemoglobin, lipid profiles, C-reactive protein, and physical performance. The study will monitor these outcomes to assess changes in mental and physical health. Safety and progress will be observed through these regular evaluations during the study period.

Researchers are evaluating a new cardiac rehabilitation therapy for patients with ischemic heart disease, including coronary heart disease and heart failure. This prospective, randomized, controlled study aims to compare the effectiveness and home rehabilitation compliance of the new therapy against traditional cardiac rehabilitation. The study follows a PICOST design and focuses on improving myocardial perfusion and other cardiovascular health measures. Participants receive either conventional drug therapy combined with the new cardiac rehabilitation treatment, which includes early respiratory rehabilitation, phase I rehabilitation, exercise therapy, external counterpulsation, and extracorporeal shock wave therapy, or conventional drug therapy combined with traditional cardiac rehabilitation based on national and international guidelines. Treatment duration varies between 1 week and 3 months depending on patient needs. During the study, participants will undergo assessments such as D_SPECT imaging to measure changes in myocardial infarct area over 6 months. Additional evaluations include blood biochemical tests, myocardial necrosis markers, cardiopulmonary exercise testing, and monitoring of major adverse cardiovascular events. Researchers will also track patient and family adherence to rehabilitation treatments to evaluate long-term outcomes and safety.