Investigating low heart electrical signals in young healthy individuals and athletes
The Prevalence and Significance of Low QRS Voltages in Young Healthy Individuals and Athletes
This study is trying to see if low heart electrical signals in young healthy people and athletes could be linked to serious heart problems, to help improve how we understand and manage these findings in sports.
Quick facts
| Study type | Observational |
|---|---|
| Enrollment | 240 (estimated) |
| Ages | 17 Years to 35 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Imperial College London Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (London) |
| Trial ID | NCT05799833 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This observational study aims to explore the significance of low QRS voltages in the electrocardiograms (ECGs) of young healthy individuals and athletes. Researchers will utilize cardiovascular MRI, cardiopulmonary exercise testing, 24-hour ECG monitoring, and genetic analysis to assess the potential link between low QRS voltages and serious heart conditions, including sudden cardiac death. The study seeks to clarify how these ECG findings should be interpreted and managed, particularly in athletes who may be at risk despite normal cardiac tests. By identifying individuals with low QRS voltages, the study hopes to improve current international sports recommendations regarding cardiac health.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are young healthy individuals and athletes with no cardiovascular symptoms and a body mass index under 30.
Not a fit: Patients with existing cardiac symptoms, a history of cardiac disease, or other significant health issues may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to better identification and management of young athletes at risk for sudden cardiac death.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown some success in identifying low QRS complexes in athletes, but this study aims to provide more comprehensive insights using advanced imaging and genetic analysis.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * No cardiovascular symptoms * Body mass index \<30. Exclusion Criteria: * Individuals with cardiac symptoms; * Past medical history of cardiac disease, previous myocarditis or lung disease; * Individuals with pacemakers or defibrillators * Family history of SCD \<40 years old or cardiomyopathy * Pregnant women * Advanced kidney and/or liver disease * Known thyroid disease, * T-wave inversion or other training unrelated ECG changes * Known significant valvular heart disease or intra-cardiac shunt on echocardiography.
Where this trial is running
London
- Royal Brompton Hospital — London, United Kingdom (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Sabiha Gati, MBBS — Royal Brompton & Harefield NHS Foundation Trust
- Study coordinator: Sabiha Gati, MBBS
- Email: s.gati@rbht.nhs.uk
- Phone: 07977 352296
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.