Hypertension Study

Vascular Dysfunction in Hypertensive Postmenopausal Women

 

Purpose:

The purpose of this pilot study is to learn more about blood vessel function in women with hypertension. Women with hypertension have an increased risk for cardiovascular disease. Decreases in blood vessel function can be used as an early indicator of cardiovascular disease. The inner lining of the blood vessels (called the endothelium), releases substances to help control blood vessel function. One of these substances is endothelin-1 (ET-1). The aims of the study are to investigate how ET-1 receptors control blood vessel function in hypertensive women. To do this we will use a technique called microdialysis. 

 

Inclusion: You are a healthy older woman between 40-70 years of age.

Exclusion: History of heart disease Use tobacco products History of blood clots or deep vein thrombosis Have a BMI greater than 35 [calculate BMI here] Use hormone replacement therapy Stroke, cancer, diabetes, or any other autoimmune or chronic disease Pregnant, planning on becoming pregnant, or breastfeeding

 

Your Participation:

Full participation in this study will require 3 visits. The visits will last between 20 minutes and five hours. The first visit will take place at the Nurse Managed Primary Care Center. The second and third visits will take place in our lab. Both of these facilities are located at 540 S. College Avenue (STAR Health Sciences Complex) in Newark, DE.  

Your participation  in this research study is entirely voluntary and you have the right to stop at any time.

 

Compensation:

You will receive compensation for full completion of the study. Compensation amount will be described during the consent process.