Actively Recruiting
The Coronary Artery Calcium and Troponins in Rheumatoid Arthritis (CAT-RA) Study
Led by Brigham and Women's Hospital · Updated on 2026-01-05
120
Participants Needed
1
Research Sites
N/A
Total Duration
On this page
Sponsors
B
Brigham and Women's Hospital
Lead Sponsor
N
National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases (NIAMS)
Collaborating Sponsor
AI-Summary
What this Trial Is About
Researchers are investigating ways to better identify individuals with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) who are at higher risk of heart disease before symptoms appear. This study focuses on using specific blood markers and imaging tests to improve risk assessment for heart attacks in people with RA, who have up to twice the risk compared to those without RA. The study aims to find biomarkers that can guide earlier preventive treatment for heart disease in this group. The study evaluates the use of high sensitivity cardiac troponin (hs-cTn) blood tests and coronary artery calcium (CAC) scans to stratify heart disease risk in RA patients. Participants are individuals aged 40 to 79 with RA diagnosed by a rheumatologist and at least one risk factor for atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD). These tests are being studied to determine if they help identify patients who might benefit from lipid lowering therapy, even if general population risk calculators do not recommend it. Participants will undergo blood tests measuring hs-cTn and imaging to assess their coronary artery calcium score at the start of the study. Researchers will use these measurements to evaluate heart disease risk. The study is observational and will monitor participants without providing specific treatments, with the aim of improving future risk prediction and prevention strategies. The study spans several years, with participant involvement including clinical assessments and laboratory testing.
CONDITIONS
Brief Title
The Coronary Artery Calcium and Troponins in Rheumatoid Arthritis (CAT-RA) Study
Who Can Participate
Eligibility Criteria
You may qualify if you...
- Rheumatoid arthritis diagnosed by a rheumatologist
- Age between 40 and 79 years
- At least one atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease risk factor such as prediabetes, hypertension, body mass index over 30, or current or past cigarette smoking
You will not qualify if you...
- Current use of statins, cholesterol absorption inhibitors, or PCSK9 inhibitors, or contraindication to statins
- Diagnosis of diabetes mellitus
- Pregnancy
AI-Screening
AI-Powered Screening
Complete this quick 3-step screening to check your eligibility
Your Study Journey
Duration - 2 to 4 weeks
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial.
1 visit (in-person)
Duration - 1 day
Participants undergo blood measurement of high sensitivity cardiac troponin and assessment of coronary artery calcium score to evaluate heart disease risk.
1 visit (in-person)
Duration - Up to 5 years
Participants are observed over time to monitor heart disease risk factors without receiving active intervention.
Periodic visits depending on clinical needs
Trial Site Locations
Total: 1 location
1
Brigham and Womens Hospital
Boston, Massachusetts, United States, 02115
Actively Recruiting
How is the study designed?
Study Type
OBSERVATIONAL
Masking
N/A
Allocation
N/A
Model
N/A
Primary Purpose
N/A
Number of Arms
0
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