Identification of New Biomarkers for the Prediction of Cardiovascular Events
This study is looking for new clues in blood that could help predict future heart attacks, strokes, and other issues with blood vessels. These conditions are very common, but current methods don't always fully predict who is at risk. Researchers are collecting extra blood samples from patients who are already being seen at a special centre for heart health in Toulouse, France. These samples will be used to find new 'biomarkers' – substances in the body that can indicate a disease – that might show who is more likely to develop heart problems. This work could lead to better ways to understand, prevent, and treat these important conditions.
At a glance
What is this study about?
Cardiovascular diseases, which affect your heart and blood vessels, are a major health concern. These include conditions like heart attacks and strokes. Doctors currently use several factors to assess your risk, such as your age, family history, smoking habits, blood pressure, and conditions like diabetes. However, these methods don't always give a complete picture, and many people still develop heart problems even when their risk seems moderate.
This study aims to improve our understanding and prediction of these diseases. Researchers want to find new biological markers – specific substances or signals in your body – that can tell us more accurately who might be at risk of future heart and blood vessel problems. By collecting and studying blood samples from many patients, they hope to identify these new warning signs and also learn more about how these diseases develop.
Ultimately, the goal is to develop better tools for doctors. Imagine being able to have a simple blood test that gives a clearer idea of your personal risk, allowing for more specific prevention strategies. This research could also help us understand the underlying causes of these conditions better, potentially leading to new medications or treatments in the future.
Key takeaways
- This study aims to find new ways to predict heart problems.
- It involves collecting extra blood samples during your regular check-ups.
- It could lead to better understanding and prevention of heart and blood vessel diseases.
- Your medical treatment will not change if you participate.
- Participation includes regular follow-up visits, potentially for several years.
- You can stop taking part at any time without affecting your care.
Who may be eligible?
This study is looking for adults aged 18 or over. You must be attending the Centre for Screening and Prevention of Atherosclerosis (CDPA) for your heart and blood vessel health.
You can be included if you are trying to prevent your first heart event (called 'primary prevention') or if you've already had a heart event like a heart attack, stroke, or problems with leg arteries (called 'secondary prevention').
You need to be covered by a health insurance system and be willing to give your written permission to take part in the study, including agreeing to possible genetic tests.
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- Are you 18 years old or older?
- Are you currently cared for at the Centre for Screening and Prevention of Atherosclerosis (CDPA)?
- Are you trying to prevent your first heart event, or have you already had one?
- Do you have health insurance?
- Are you willing to give written permission and agree to possible genetic tests?
What does participation involve?
If you join this study, you will have two extra blood samples taken (about 7ml each, which is roughly a dessert spoon) during your regular visits to the Centre for Screening and Prevention of Atherosclerosis (CDPA). These samples will be used to store serum, plasma, and DNA for future research.
Your usual check-ups, which include discussing your lifestyle, diet, and exercise, along with medical tests like ECGs, stress tests, and artery scans, will continue as normal. You will have these tests done at every future visit. If you are preventing your first heart event, you'll be seen every two years. If you've already had one, you'll be seen yearly.
The researchers plan to recruit patients for five years, and they will collect information from participants for up to eight years in total. There are no new medications or treatments involved in this study; it's focused on collecting information and samples.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- University Hospital ToulouseVerified postcodeToulouse, France· Recruiting
Common questions
What is a 'biomarker'?
A biomarker is a natural signal in your body, like a substance in your blood, that can tell doctors about your health, such as if you have a disease or are at risk of one.
Will taking extra blood samples hurt?
You might feel a small prick and some minor discomfort when the blood is drawn, similar to any routine blood test. It's usually a quick procedure.
Will this study change my current treatment?
No, this study is about collecting information and samples for research. It will not change the medical care or treatment you are currently receiving for your cardiovascular health.
What happens to my blood samples?
The extra blood samples will be stored securely and used by researchers to look for new biomarkers and to understand more about heart and blood vessel diseases.
Will my personal data be kept private?
Yes, strict measures are in place to ensure your personal information and health data are kept confidential and handled according to privacy regulations.
How to find out more
Jean Ferrières, MD PhD
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Interested in taking part?
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