Examining how sex and gender differences affect heart disease risk in rural communities

Investigation of Sex and Gender Differences in Cardiovascular Risk in Rural Communities

NIH-funded research Emory University · NIH-11032736

This study is looking at how living in rural areas affects women's heart health, especially the risk of early heart disease, by exploring how things like stress and access to healthcare play a role, and it involves about 3,800 people aged 25-64 using smartphone technology to track their daily stress and heart health.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionEmory University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Atlanta, United States)
Project IDNIH-11032736 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the unique cardiovascular risks faced by women living in rural areas of the United States, particularly focusing on the increase in premature coronary heart disease (CHD) mortality. It aims to understand how social and psychological factors, such as gender stereotypes and limited access to healthcare, contribute to these risks. By partnering with an existing cohort study, the research will analyze data from around 3,800 individuals aged 25-64, utilizing innovative smartphone technology to assess everyday stress and its impact on heart health. The study will explore the interplay between biological and social factors in influencing cardiovascular health outcomes.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include women aged 25-64 living in rural areas of the Southern United States.

Not a fit: Patients outside the specified age range or those living in urban areas may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and targeted interventions for reducing heart disease risk among rural women.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has indicated that addressing social and psychological factors can significantly impact cardiovascular health, suggesting potential for success in this approach.

Where this research is happening

Atlanta, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.