CHLA Research Study on Neurovascular and Neurocognitive Consequences of Iron Deficiency Anemia

Purpose

Anemia is a condition where the body is not making enough red blood cells to transport oxygen. The objective of this study is to learn how anemia may affect the oxygen delivery to the brain as measured by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). By studying this, we hope to better identify people who may benefit from correction of their anemia by iron therapy.

In order to be considered for this study, hemoglobin or hematocrit level needs to be measured. If you think you have anemia but do not have a recent record of your hemoglobin or hematocrit level, please request for a screening visit from us.

If you are between 18 and 60 years of age, and have a hemoglobin level below 11, or hematocrit level below 32, you may be eligible to participate in our study. You must have a record of recent test results or be screened through us. Please fill out your information here if you are interested in learning more about the study.

Participation in this study is voluntary.

Keywords: anemia, low iron, low hemoglobin, magnetic resonance imaging, MRI, neurovascular, blood flow

Study Sites

4650 sunset blvd 90027

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  • Women
Age icon
18 - 60
 
 
OR
 

What's involved?

Study length

  • N/A

Number of visits

  • Observational arm: 1-3 visits if you need a screening visit or 1-2 visits if you already have recent hemoglobin or hematocrit levels.

  • You may be invited to participate in the interventional arm of the study if you qualify based on the blood tests obtained in the observational arm. Please contact the study team to learn more.

Prescription

  • N/A

Procedures

  • Blood draw

  • Questionnaires

  • Brain MRI

  • Measurements of vitals, height, and weight

  • Neurocognitive testing

  • Chart review (if applicable)

  • Urine pregnancy test (if applicable)

Compensation

  • Compensation is available for completion of prescreening visit (if applicable) and study procedures.

Medical cost coverage

  • Study-related tests and procedures are covered; Routine health care tests and procedures are not covered by the research; All study-related costs are covered by the research grant. Care will be offered for injuries directly resulting from the research. Research injury related care, tests, and procedures are not covered and will be billed to you.

Eligibility

Must have

  • Observational arm:
  • Must be a female between 18 and 60 years of age.
  • Anemic group: hemoglobin <11 g/dl or hematocrit of <32% (you must have a proof of recent test results or be screened through us)
  • Control group (without anemia): hemoglobin >13.2 g/dl or hematocrit >39.6%

Can't have

  • Observational arm:
  • Diabetes requiring medication
  • Hypertension (systolic blood pressures persistently > 140 mmHg or diastolic blood pressures > 90 mmHg) requiring medication
  • Sleep disordered breathing requiring intervention
  • Contraindications to MRI, including pacemaker, severe claustrophobia or pregnancy or dental braces
  • Known systemic inflammatory disease such as inflammatory bowel disease, systemic lupus erythematosus, or scleroderma
  • Known HIV
  • Body mass index >40 (morbid obesity)

Study Team

Photohandler
Principal Investigator
John C. Wood, MD, PhD

For questions about this study, contact:

Research study materials

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