PAST
Research type
Research Study
Full title
A Pilot study to compare methods for the Assessment of total body Sodium and waTer - PAST
IRAS ID
238663
Contact name
Phil Chowienczyk
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
King's College London
Duration of Study in the UK
2 years, 0 months, 1 days
Research summary
An increased amount of sodium (salt), water and blood volume in the body are thought to play a part in high blood pressure and heart failure and there are a number of potential methods for estimating these. However, it is relatively unknown how specific and sensitive these methods are. Diuretics or ‘water tablets’ are often used in these conditions to cause us to pass more salt and water as urine. In this study, we aim to assess the methods that are used to measure body sodium, water and blood volume and compare these both before and after a doctor has decided that a diuretic (water tablet) is needed. We will also compare the methods in groups of people that are known to have different volume status. The doctor may decide that the patient will benefit from a 'saline suppression test' (a drip of salt and water), and these methods will again be measured before and after the test. We will involve both patients with a normal blood pressure and high blood pressure, and those with heart failure. The study will take place in St. Thomas' Hospital, London and will involve blood pressure readings, scans of the heart and weight scales which tell the amount of fat, muscle and water in the body.
REC name
London - Surrey Borders Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
18/LO/1423
Date of REC Opinion
12 Oct 2018
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion