University of Queensland researchers are seeking volunteers to help with a study to investigate the causes of diabetic heart diseases and the best methods for detection.
These factors remain to be conclusively established, according to University of Queensland researcher Dr Christine Jellis.
"Our group in the UQ Southern School of Medicine is conducting a clinical trial to further investigate this,” she said.
"With the use of echocardiography (cardiac ultrasound), cardiac MRI, nuclear imaging tests and biochemical tests we hope to detect early, asymptomatic heart disease and prevent its progression with medical and lifestyle interventions."
The University researchers are seeking male and female volunteers with type 2 diabetes, aged over 40 years and without any past history of heart disease, cancer or kidney failure.
Volunteers will be asked to attend Princess Alexandra Hospital or Greenslopes Private Hospital where the imaging and biochemical tests will be performed free of charge.
The results will be available for the participant’s medical record. If evidence of diabetic heart disease is found, some people will be randomised into a six month medical or exercise programme.
This trial will help build the evidence for the best management approach of asymptomatic diabetic heart disease.
Dr Jellis said cardiovascular disease was the most common cause of death worldwide and diabetes was a well validated cardiac risk factor.
"Given the projected epidemic of type 2 diabetes over the next decade, it is expected that this will also lead to a significant increase in the prevalence of cardiovascular disease," she said.
"The association between diabetes and cardiac disease is multi-factorial. Even in the absence of coronary artery disease and high blood pressure, the prevalence of heart disease in patients with diabetes remains elevated relative to the non-diabetic population. This condition has been previously described as diabetic heart disease."
Dr Jellis and her research colleague Mr Julian Sacre said that the results of the current research would add to the understanding of early diabetic heart disease. This would ultimately assist in the assessment and long-term prevention of this condition.
To volunteer for this study or for further information please contact Dr Christine Jellis on 3240 5813 or c.jellis@.uq.edu.au or Mr Julian Sacre on 3240 5324 or j.sacre@uq.edu.au
