A New Breath for Malignant Hypertension: Implementation of the HAMA Cohort
This study is gathering vital information about a serious form of very high blood pressure known as malignant hypertension. Even though it's a severe condition that can be life-threatening if not treated, we still don't know enough about it today. This project, called the HAMA Cohort, plans to create the first large database of patients with this condition in the UK. By collecting information from many hospitals, researchers want to understand how common it is now, how doctors are currently treating it, and what happens to patients over time. The goal is to update how we define and diagnose malignant hypertension and eventually create better, evidence-based guidelines for treatment. This research is crucial because current knowledge and recommendations haven't changed much in decades, despite the condition affecting younger adults and having serious health consequences.
At a glance
What is this study about?
This study, called the HAMA Cohort, is looking into a very serious type of high blood pressure known as malignant hypertension. This isn't just slightly high blood pressure; it's when your blood pressure is extremely high (over 180/110) and is causing immediate damage to your body, particularly your eyes. If left untreated, it can be very dangerous.
Even though it's a severe condition, affecting people often between 35 and 55 years old, there hasn't been much research on it in recent times. This means that doctors are often relying on old information and general advice to treat it because there aren't many up-to-date guidelines based on solid scientific evidence. The aim of this study is to change that by gathering a lot of new information.
The researchers want to create the first big database of patients with malignant hypertension across many hospitals. By doing this, they hope to understand how common the condition is today, how it's being managed, and what happens to patients over several years. This new information will help them update the definition and diagnosis of malignant hypertension, understand its effects on different parts of the body, and ultimately develop much better, evidence-based recommendations for treatment to improve patient care.
Key takeaways
- This study focuses on malignant hypertension, a very severe form of high blood pressure.
- It aims to update our understanding and improve treatment recommendations.
- Participation involves sharing existing medical information; no new treatments are given.
- The study collects data over a 5-year period for each patient.
- Your contribution helps future patients with this condition.
Who may be eligible?
To be part of this study, you would need to have malignant hypertension. This usually means your blood pressure is very high (over 180/110 for the top number and over 110 for the bottom number) and doctors can see specific issues, such as severe changes in the back of your eyes (retinopathy) linked to high blood pressure. Alternatively, you might be eligible if you have very high blood pressure (over 180/110) along with acute damage to three different organs in your body caused by this high blood pressure.
You cannot join the study if you are under 18 years old. Also, if you are unable to freely agree to take part, or if you decide you don't wish to participate, you won't be included. Patients who are currently on dialysis treatment for kidney failure also cannot take part in this study.
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- Is your blood pressure very high (over 180/110)?
- Have doctors diagnosed you with severe eye problems (retinopathy) because of your high blood pressure?
- Or, do you have very high blood pressure causing acute damage to three different organs in your body?
- Are you 18 years old or older?
- Are you not currently receiving dialysis treatment for kidney failure?
What does participation involve?
This study is a 'registry,' which means it primarily involves collecting health information over time rather than giving new treatments. If you choose to take part, researchers will collect anonymous information from your medical records related to your malignant hypertension. This would include details about your diagnosis, how your condition is being managed, and how it progresses over the next five years. You won't be asked to take any new or different medications specifically for this study, nor will you have extra clinic visits beyond your usual medical care. The study aims to follow how your condition develops under your standard medical treatment, without changing anything about your care. The total duration of data collection for each patient is expected to be five years.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (37)
- CH d'AnnecyVerified postcodeAnnecy, France· Recruiting
- CH de la côte BasqueVerified postcodeBayonne, France· Recruiting
- Avicenne APHPVerified postcodeBobigny, France· Recruiting
- CHU - Hôpital St AndréVerified postcodeBordeaux, France· Recruiting
- CH de Chalon sur SaoneVerified postcodeChalon-sur-Saône, France· Recruiting
- CH MétropoleVerified postcodeChambéry, France· Recruiting
- CHU de Clermont FERRANDVerified postcodeClermont-Ferrand, France· Recruiting
- Hôpital Henri MondorVerified postcodeCréteil, France· Recruiting
- CH de DinardVerified postcodeDinard, France· Recruiting
- CHU MichallonVerified postcodeGrenoble, France· Recruiting
- hôpital de HaguenauVerified postcodeHaguenau, France· Recruiting
- Pôle Santé SudVerified postcodeLe Mans, France· Recruiting
Common questions
What is malignant hypertension?
It's a very severe form of high blood pressure where your blood pressure is extremely high and is causing damage to your body, especially your eyes or other organs.
Why is this research important?
There hasn't been much new research on malignant hypertension for a long time. This study aims to gather up-to-date information to improve diagnosis and treatment guidelines for patients.
Will I receive new treatment in this study?
No, this is a registry, meaning it collects information from your existing medical care. You will continue with your standard treatment as prescribed by your doctor.
How long will I be involved in the study?
The study aims to collect information about your health over a five-year period.
Is my personal information safe?
Yes, your information will be collected anonymously and kept strictly confidential. Your privacy is a priority.
How to find out more
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Interested in taking part?
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