Understanding health trends in Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico Observational Study of Psychosocial, Environmental, and Chronic Disease Trends

Observational Harvard School of Public Health (HSPH) · NCT03794531

This study is trying to understand health trends in Puerto Rico by looking at diet, mental health, and heart health in adults aged 30-75 over time.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment2500 (estimated)
Ages30 Years to 75 Years
SexAll
SponsorHarvard School of Public Health (HSPH) Academic / other
Locations1 site (San Juan)
Trial IDNCT03794531 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study aims to identify trends and associations in psychosocial, dietary, and cardiometabolic risk factors among adults in Puerto Rico. It will establish a longitudinal cohort of 2,000 adults aged 30-75, recruited through community sampling, and assessed at various partner clinics across the island. The study will collect extensive data on psychosocial factors, dietary habits, cardiovascular disease markers, and medical records, with follow-ups occurring every two years. The research will also explore variations based on urban-rural residency and the impact of Hurricane Maria.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 30-75 who have lived in Puerto Rico for at least a year and can participate without assistance.

Not a fit: Patients who are institutionalized or unable to answer questions independently may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could inform public health strategies to reduce cardiovascular-related health disparities in Puerto Rico.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies focusing on psychosocial and environmental factors in minority populations have shown promise, indicating that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

1. Age 30-75 years old at the time of enrollment
2. Non-institutionalized
3. Living in PR at the time of the first interview and the year before and not planning to move from the island within 3 years
4. Able to answer questions without assistance
5. Living in a stable dwelling

Exclusion Criteria:

Where this trial is running

San Juan

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Heart DiseasesType2 DiabetesHypertensionObesityDyslipidemiasMetabolic SyndromeCardiovascular DiseasesChronic Disease
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.