Cardiovascular Outcomes Research Center for Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities (ARIC)

Since its inception in 1987, the Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities (ARIC) study has provided a unique opportunity to examine factors contributing to the development of atherosclerosis and cardiovascular disease. We propose to expand the ARIC study by establishing a Cardiovascular Outcomes Research Center which will bring together investigators from multiple disciplines to evaluate health services use for persons at increased risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) and to provide the framework for outcomes research pertaining to CVD-related endpoints. This proposal is focused on research on the quality and outcomes of medical care for heart failure and associated risk factors. The aims of the proposed Cardiovascular Outcomes Research Center are to identify opportunities to: (1) conduct comparative effectiveness research to determine the relative effectiveness of different interventions and strategies for the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of heart failure; and (2) develop protocols for the evaluation of medical care for heart failure risk factors and heart failure to be implemented as part of the proposed re-examination of the ARIC cohort (Visit 5), extended cohort follow-up, and continued surveillance of the ARIC study communities.

Principal Investigator: Sally Stearns, Ph.D.

Funding: National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute

Total Project Period: 11/1/10-10/31/16