Understanding delays in diagnosing heart failure after childbirth in Black women

Evaluating risk of diagnostic delay in peripartum cardiomyopathy

NIH-funded research University of Pennsylvania · NIH-11048818

This study is looking into why some women, especially Black women, experience delays in getting diagnosed with peripartum cardiomyopathy, a serious heart condition that can happen after giving birth, and it aims to find ways to help doctors catch it earlier so that women can get the care they need faster.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Pennsylvania NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Philadelphia, United States)
Project IDNIH-11048818 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the reasons behind delays in diagnosing peripartum cardiomyopathy (PPCM), a serious heart condition that can occur after childbirth, particularly in Black women. By examining factors from patients, healthcare providers, and health systems, the study aims to identify barriers that contribute to late diagnosis and poor outcomes. The research will involve collecting patient-reported data from women recently diagnosed with PPCM across a network of 60 sites in the US. The ultimate goal is to develop effective interventions to improve early detection and treatment of this condition.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include Black women who have recently been diagnosed with peripartum cardiomyopathy.

Not a fit: Patients who are not Black women or those who have not experienced peripartum cardiomyopathy may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved early diagnosis and treatment of peripartum cardiomyopathy, potentially reducing maternal mortality rates among Black women.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has indicated that addressing diagnostic delays in similar cardiovascular conditions can lead to improved patient outcomes, suggesting that this approach has potential for success.

Where this research is happening

Philadelphia, 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.