PET Scans for Heart Disease Risk Assessment in Women
(HER-CROWN Trial)
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
The full HER CROWN will be a prospective cohort study to propose a novel, women-specific cardiovascular risk score/ algorithm in the prediction of hard cardiovascular outcomes (myocardial infarction, unstable angina, coronary revascularization, stroke, total and cardiovascular mortality). This future study will be the first longitudinal cohort study, to our knowledge, that is focused entirely on researching the pathophysiology and natural history of cardiovascular disease in women with known female-specific risk factors. Further, the investigators are aiming to recruit a sample that is representative of the ethnic distribution in Canada. The proposed pilot study is a feasibility study as an essential preparatory step for HER CROWN.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It's best to discuss this with the trial coordinators or your doctor.
Is PET imaging safe for women?
How does PET imaging differ from other treatments for assessing heart disease risk in women?
PET imaging for heart disease risk assessment in women is unique because it offers improved diagnostic accuracy, even in the presence of breast tissue or small heart size, and uses short-lived radiopharmaceuticals to reduce radiation exposure. It also allows for the quantification of blood flow to diagnose heart issues, even when there are no obvious blockages in the arteries.36789
What data supports the effectiveness of the treatment PET scan for heart disease risk assessment in women?
PET scans are shown to be a powerful tool for diagnosing and assessing the risk of heart disease in women, offering improved accuracy even in challenging cases and lower radiation exposure. They help in diagnosing heart issues early, which can lead to better treatment and management of heart disease in women.36101112
Who Is on the Research Team?
Kerri-Anne Mullen, PhD
Principal Investigator
UOHI
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for women in Ontario with a valid health card, aged 25-55, who have specific conditions like gestational diabetes, PCOS, early menopause or inflammatory disorders such as Lupus. It's also open to those who've had pre-eclampsia or breast cancer.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Vanguard Phase
Feasibility study to evaluate the full study being planned, including blood samples, questionnaires, and various cardiovascular assessments
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after the vanguard phase
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- PET scan
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Ottawa Heart Institute Research Corporation
Lead Sponsor