NCT07145138 · University of Illinois at Chicago
UIC Multi-Ethnic DCM Registry
What this study is about
Dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM), a condition where the heart loses its ability to pump blood throughout the body, is a common cause of death in the United States (US). It affects minorities more frequently and appears to causes greater harm than Whites. However, almost all research related to DCM has been performed in Whites, where up to half of cases run in the family.
View original scientific description
Dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM), a condition where the heart loses its ability to pump blood throughout the body, is a common cause of death in the United States (US). It affects minorities more frequently and appears to causes greater harm than Whites. However, almost all research related to DCM has been performed in Whites, where up to half of cases run in the family. Several genes have been identified that cause the disease, but we are unsure if these same genes are also responsible for DCM in African Americans or Hispanic/Latino patients. The impact of various medical, social, and financial stressors on the severity of the disease in ethnic minorities also remains unclear. The investigators believe that certain genes are more common in different racial and ethnic groups and the greater medical, social, and financial burden faced by minorities in the US leads to more harm from DCM in these groups. The overall goal of the project is to test whether ethnic minority patients carrying genes that cause DCM experience more adverse effects in part because of various medical, social, and financial burdens. The investigators will first establish the UIC Multi-ethnic DCM Biorepository to look for how often certain genes are found across different race-ethnicity and then ask the question if these genes impact the severity of DCM. Finally, the investigators will study how a person's environment can alter the course of their disease. Through this, the investigators hope and strive to ensure equal and adequate heart care for individuals regardless of their race-ethnicity.
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- Must be at least 18 years of age and be admitted to or seen at a UIH site.
- Subjects must be willing and able to give written, informed consent
Exclusion criteria
- Adults who are unable to provide consent
- Women who are pregnant at the baseline visit,
- Individuals who are not yet adults (infants, children, teenagers).
Where
- Chicago, Illinois
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Aug 28, 2025 · Source of record for eligibility and locations