NCT05492708 · Heartland Health Research Alliance
The Heartland Study
What this study is about
The Heartland Study is a forward-looking, observational study that will enroll up to 2,600 pregnant participants across the Heartland States in the U.S.. The objective of the Heartland Study is to address major knowledge gaps concerning the health effects of herbicides on maternal and infant health.
View original scientific description
The Heartland Study is a prospective, observational study that will enroll up to 2,600 pregnant participants across the Heartland States in the U.S.. The objective of the Heartland Study is to address major knowledge gaps concerning the health effects of herbicides on maternal and infant health. The study is being conducted to evaluate the associations between environmental exposures to herbicides during and after pregnancy and reproductive health outcomes. The study is measuring multiple biomarkers of herbicide exposure among pregnant Midwesterners and their partners to evaluate associations with pregnancy and childbirth outcomes, epigenetic biomarkers of exposure, and child development.
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
- Pregnant persons ages 18 or older at time of consent who are ≤20+6 weeks pregnant. Best clinical estimate of gestational age will be utilized for recruitment purposes. Enrollment in the first trimester (≤ 13 + 6) is preferred, but anyone ≤ 20 +6 is permitted.
- Living in one of the 13 Heartland Study region states at the time of enrollment (Arkansas, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, Ohio, South Dakota, or Wisconsin) Optional inclusion of the putative biological father
Exclusion criteria
- Participants who are not fluent in and/or do not fully understand, read, write, or speak the English language.
- Other inability to provide informed consent to participate
Where
- Indianapolis, Indiana
- Iowa City, Iowa
- La Crosse, Wisconsin
- Marshfield, Wisconsin
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 Jun 29, 2025 · Source of record for eligibility and locations