Study of Blood Vessel Health and Function in Adults with Down Syndrome Compared to Adults Without Down Syndrome

What this Trial Is About

Adults with Down syndrome Ds have traditionally been thought to have a lower risk of heart and blood vessel diseases due to lower blood pressure and fewer heart attacks compared to adults without Ds. However, as life expectancy increases, cardiovascular diseases like stroke are becoming more common causes of death in this population. This research aims to better understand blood vessel health in adults with Ds by comparing their vascular function and stiffness to adults without Ds, to clarify their cardiovascular risk and explore preventive strategies. The study uses a cross-sectional design involving two groups adults with Ds and age- and sex-matched adults without Ds. It focuses on measuring blood vessel function and stiffness through multiple assessments including pulse wave velocity, arterial stiffness indices, carotid ultrasonography, and endothelial function tests. Participants undergo two visits lasting up to 2 hours each, including physical activity questionnaires, body composition assessments with DEXA scans, and vascular function tests such as isometric hand grip exercises and flow-mediated dilation protocols. Participants will have their blood vessel health evaluated using ultrasound and blood pressure monitors to assess arterial stiffness, blood flow changes, and endothelial function. Researchers collect various cardiovascular measurements to understand vascular aging and its impact in adults with Ds. The study also includes caregiver involvement to support participants and uses standardized questionnaires and imaging techniques. The total time for primary outcome measurement is about 4 hours, with ongoing monitoring through the study period ending in 2026.

Vascular Function in Adults With Down Syndrome