The HEART-BEAT Clinic Study
Research type
Research Study
Full title
The HEART-BEAT (Heart Evaluation and Assessment in Reproductive Transition - Biomarkers, Echocardiography, Adaptation, & Trajectories) Clinic Study
IRAS ID
366328
Contact name
Catherine Aiken
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust & University of Cambridge
Duration of Study in the UK
9 years, 11 months, 31 days
Research summary
Heart disease is a major cause of maternal death in the UK, and many of these deaths are thought to be preventable. For women with heart conditions, pregnancy can sometimes be a stressful experience with fragmented care pathways.
The primary goal of the HEART-BEAT Clinic Study is to explore the experiences of women attending a specialist clinic that combines clinical care with research. With this information, we also hope to learn what kind of care best prevents poor pregnancy outcomes and use these findings to develop a better, patient-driven model of care for pregnant women with heart conditions that can be implemented around the UK and globally.
This study is open to women who are referred to our specialist Pregnancy Heart Clinic due to a heart condition or their risk of developing a heart condition. The study takes place primarily during regular clinic appointments, where participants will also complete up to two short questionnaires per visit. We will perform a heart rhythm check (ECG), exercise tolerance test (6MWT), and heart ultrasound scan (echo) as per routine clinical care. We will also ask for access to mother and baby health records to see patient health outcomes for up to 10 years after enrolment in the study and the baby’s health outcomes up to his/her first birthday.
Participants may be contacted about other add-on research studies that may involve additional interviews or health monitoring through devices like smart watches. The decision to join HEART-BEAT or any add-on studies will not impact clinical care, and there are minimal risks involved.
This study will help us make new, improved recommendations for care pathways, ensuring that women with heart conditions remain safe and feel supported throughout their journey.
REC name
West Midlands - Black Country Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
26/WM/0136
Date of REC Opinion
16 Jul 2026
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion