Thrombotic risk in South Asians with CAD
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Thrombotic risk factors in South Asian patients with Coronary Artery Disease
IRAS ID
358869
Contact name
Caroline Kardeby-Ireland
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Aston University
Duration of Study in the UK
4 years, 11 months, 30 days
Research summary
Cardiovascular diseases (CVD), which affect the heart and blood vessels, are the leading cause of death worldwide. These diseases often result from fatty buildup in the arteries and include problems like coronary artery disease (CAD), strokes, and blood clots.
Interestingly, South Asians living in the UK experience CAD at twice the rate of their white European neighbours. Studies have shown that South Asians often have higher levels of certain health risks, such as belly fat, unhealthy cholesterol levels, and diabetes.
Traditionally, much of the existing research on CAD has been conducted in Europe and America, predominantly including Caucasian patients. The current risk factor model and therapeutics are based on these landmark studies. However, some studies indicate notable differences in how South Asians respond to certain medications. For example, it has been shown that South Asians have more reactive platelets, which are involved in blood clotting. Another study showed that many South Asians may metabolise a common heart medication, Clopidogrel, poorly, putting them at greater risk of heart-related issues.
There is currently a significant gap in research involving South Asians, particularly regarding how their platelets behave in health and disease status. This project aims to investigate platelet reactivity, blood markers and tiny particles (microvesicles) responsible for clot formation and heart disease in South Asians with and without CAD. This research will help understand how risk factors contribute to heart disease in South Asians, and possibly help in developing a predictive model.
The study will recruit adult patients with and without CAD attending Cardiology Clinics at the Sandwell and West Birmingham Hospital NHS trust. Participants will be asked to give a blood sample of a maximum of 30 mL at their next cardiology appointment, and their height and weight measurements will also be taken.REC name
London - Surrey Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
25/LO/0800
Date of REC Opinion
17 Dec 2025
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion