Hamburg City Health Study A Prospective Cohort Study Using Imaging to Identify Individuals at Risk for Major Chronic Diseases and Improve Early Diagnosis and Survival

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are conducting the Hamburg City Health Study (HCHS), a large, long-term research project involving a population-based group from Hamburg, Germany. The study aims to gain extensive knowledge about risk and prognostic factors for major chronic diseases such as coronary heart disease, stroke, dementia, cancer, vascular diseases, periodontal diseases, ocular diseases, respiratory disease, and obesity. The study will help develop complex models to predict health outcomes based on a variety of examination, imaging, and behavioral data. A random sample of 45,000 participants aged 45 to 74 years from Hamburg will undergo a detailed baseline assessment at a specialized study center. This includes 13 validated and 5 novel examinations focusing on heart, blood vessel, and brain function and structure, with extensive imaging tests. Participants also complete questionnaires about lifestyle, environment, diet, physical activity, work, psychosocial context, digital media use, medical and family history, and health care use. Genomic and proteomic analyses are also performed. Those identified at risk for conditions like coronary artery disease, atrial fibrillation, heart failure, stroke, or dementia will be invited for additional MRI scans of the heart or brain. Participants will be followed over time with yearly self-reported health updates for up to 12 years. Follow-up exams and data from health and pension insurances will be used to assess outcomes. The study involves no treatments but focuses on observing health changes and risk factor development. The total participation includes baseline assessments, possible additional imaging, and repeated follow-ups to monitor health status and disease progression.

Hamburg City Health Study - a German Cohort Study