The impact of volunteering on heart health across different ancestry groups

Volunteering, Polygenic Risk, and Cardiovascular Biomarkers in Multiple Ancestry Groups

NIH-funded research Texas State University · NIH-11012818

This study looks at how volunteering might help improve heart health, especially for people over 50 from different backgrounds, by checking if it lowers things like blood pressure and inflammation over time.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionTexas State University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (San Marcos, United States)
Project IDNIH-11012818 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how volunteering affects cardiovascular health, particularly focusing on various ancestry groups. It aims to understand whether sustained volunteering can lead to improvements in cardiovascular disease biomarkers, such as blood pressure and inflammation, especially in adults over 50. The study will analyze existing data from the Health and Retirement Study to explore the relationship between volunteering and heart health over a decade, while considering genetic and behavioral factors. By examining these connections, the research seeks to provide insights into how social engagement can influence health outcomes.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults over the age of 50, particularly those who are involved in or considering volunteering activities.

Not a fit: Patients who are younger than 50 or those who do not engage in volunteering may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved cardiovascular health strategies for older adults through increased volunteering.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown positive associations between volunteering and cardiovascular health, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

San Marcos, 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 2026-06-10 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.