Coronary Atherosclerosis in Women Athletes: Asymptomatic Marathon Women studied by MSCT Angiography

Title: Coronary Atherosclerosis in Women Athletes: Asymptomatic Marathon Women studied by MSCT Angiography (Women’s Marathon Study)

Study Sponsor: Minneapolis Heart Insititute Foundation

Study Synopsis: This study is a unique cardiac evaluation of repetitive female marathon runners. There is controversy in the medical literature over the value and potential health risk of training for and running numerous marathons.   Many physicians and physiologists believe that persistent long distance running is cardio protective and life enhancing. A minority of cardiologists have suggested that chronic marathoning may accelerate the development of coronary disease. 

This study will determine whether moderate to high intensity, long term athletic training and competition is associated with enhanced coronary artery disease in women. All participants will undergo a non-invasive Multi-slice computed tomography (MSCT) that looks at the coronary arteries and will show if there is any buildup of plaque. In addition we will collect a blood sample and administer a questionnaire to determine training volume, total number of marathons, cardiac risk factors, and lifestyle issues. To be eligible for this study you must be > 40 years old, female and have run marathons competitively for a minimum of 10 years. The information collected will be compared against sedentary and fitness activity groups who have never been long distance runners derived from the current Minneapolis Heart Institute Foundation imaging database. 

Study Status: Enrolling

How do I qualify? You may qualify if you have run in marathons for over 10 years.

Who do I contact for information?  Denise Windenburg or contact research at 612.863.3980