Blood Pressure Research Study
Researchers at the University of Colorado Boulder are conducting a study about the effects of heat therapy on blood pressure and blood vessel function.
Fast Facts
Systolic Blood Pressure Between 115 and 159 mmHg
Ages 40+
Compensation Provided
Conducted in Boulder, CO
Study Background
Researchers at the Integrative Physiology of Aging Lab at the University of Colorado Boulder are conducting a study looking at the effects of sitting in a hot tub on blood pressure, blood vessel function, and brain function.
Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of death in the US, and age is the strongest risk factor for developing CVD. The main mechanisms linking age to increased CVD risk are increases in blood pressure and decreases in blood vessel function.
In this study, we also aim to examine the mechanisms behind potential beneficial effects of heat therapy and provide initial insight into the effects of heat therapy on cognitive and motor function, both of which are impaired progressively with age and have severe impacts on health and quality of life.
Eventually, the findings of this study may help the scientific community establish treatment options that can prevent, delay, or even reverse-age associated vascular, motor, and cognitive disorders.
Study Background
Researchers at the Integrative Physiology of Aging Lab at the University of Colorado Boulder are conducting a study looking at the effects of sitting in a hot tub on blood pressure, blood vessel function, and brain function.
Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of death in the US, and age is the strongest risk factor for developing CVD. The main mechanisms linking age to increased CVD risk are increases in blood pressure and decreases in blood vessel function. Our lab has previously conducted smaller studies looking at the effects of sitting in a hot tub and we have seen significant improvements in blood pressure and blood vessel function.
In this study, we also aim to examine the mechanisms behind potential beneficial effects of heat therapy and provide initial insight into the effects of heat therapy on cognitive and motor function, both of which are impaired progressively with age and have severe impacts on health and quality of life.
Eventually, the findings of this study may help us establish treatment options that can prevent, delay, or even reverse-age associated vascular, motor, and cognitive disorders.
Additional Information
In this study, we are trying to understand the effects of heat therapy on blood pressure, blood vessel function, and brain function. High blood pressure and poor blood vessel function are associated with disorders such as cardiovascular disease, the leading cause of death in the US. Determining effective treatments for these conditions can potentially help treat associated vascular, motor, and cognitive disorders.
You may qualify for this study if you meet the following criteria.
Inclusion Criteria:
- Ages 40+
- Have high blood pressure, defined as a systolic blood pressure (top number) between 115 and 159 mmHg
- Do not currently use alpha-blockers, beta-blockers, or anticholinergics (e.g. tamsulosin, metoprolol, amitriptyline). If you are unsure if you are taking these medications, please still apply
The entire study lasts 7-8 months. During this time, participants will attend between 46-52 visits, totalling approximately 80 hours. These visits involve:
- Screening (1-3 visits): We will determine if you qualify for the study and draw a blood sample, take your blood pressure, and give you a bone density scan.
- Baseline Testing (2-3 visits): Baseline testing will assess your blood vessel and brain function using a sensor placed on the surface of your skin.
- Tub Sessions (36 visits): Over the course of 3 months, participants will be asked to come to our facility 3 times per week to sit in either a hot or thermoneutral (the same temperature as your body) tub. During each 1.5 hour session, you will sit in the tub for 45 minutes and then have blood pressure and hydration measurements taken. Participants will not be sharing tubs during these sessions, and we can accommodate any requests to work with research team members of the same sex. We can also accommodate you if you do not own swimwear.
- Post-Testing (1 visit): Baseline measures will be repeated after you have completed the tub sessions.
- Follow-up Testing (2 visits): You will come for a 2-hour visit to measure blood vessel and brain function 1 month and then 3 months after completing the tub sessions.
Participants can receive compensation up to $905, as well as reimbursement for transportation costs.
There is no cost for you to participate in our research study.
