Understanding how childhood stress affects heart health

Cardiovascular Health & Early Stress

Observational Virginia Commonwealth University · NCT06557707

This study looks at how stressful experiences in childhood can affect heart health in young people aged 9 to 30.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment120 (estimated)
Ages9 Years to 30 Years
SexAll
SponsorVirginia Commonwealth University Academic / other
Locations1 site (Richmond, Virginia)
Trial IDNCT06557707 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study investigates the relationship between adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) and cardiovascular health in individuals aged 9 to 30. It aims to explore how different types of childhood stress can lead to long-term cardiometabolic issues, such as heart disease and diabetes. By examining physiological responses to stress and the cumulative effects of ACEs, the study seeks to uncover the underlying mechanisms that contribute to cardiovascular dysfunction. Participants will be assessed for their experiences with ACEs and their cardiovascular health status.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates include men and pre-menopausal women aged 18-30, as well as males and females aged 9-17 who have experienced childhood adversity.

Not a fit: Patients with existing cardiovascular, pulmonary, renal, hepatic, or cerebral diseases, as well as those with chronic pain or pregnancy, may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could provide insights into preventing cardiovascular diseases linked to childhood adversity.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown a correlation between ACEs and health outcomes, but this specific approach to understanding cardiovascular health is less explored.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

Cohort 1

* Men and pre-menopausal women
* 18-30 years old

Cohort 2

* males and females
* 9-17 years old

Exclusion Criteria:

Cohort 1

* Evidence of cardiovascular, pulmonary, renal, hepatic or cerebral diseases
* Evidence of pregnancy or currently nursing.
* Having a history of chronic pain
* Having a history of rheumatoid arthritis

Cohort 2

* Evidence of cardiovascular, pulmonary, renal, hepatic or cerebral diseases
* Evidence of pregnancy or currently nursing.
* Having a history of chronic pain
* Having a history of rheumatoid arthritis

Where this trial is running

Richmond, Virginia

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 Stress
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.