Healthy Adults Research Study
High blood (hypertension) pressure affects nearly 1 in 3 adults and is more common in persons of African American descent than non-Hispanic white persons. Cardiovascular conditions such as hypertension have been linked to hearing loss. The prevalence of hearing loss also differs by race. Researchers at the University of Colorado Boulder and the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus are conducting a study with healthy individuals who identify as Black/African American to learn more about hypertension and hearing loss.
Fast Facts
Identify as Black/African American
Have normal blood pressure
Compensation Provided
Conducted in Boulder or Aurora, CO
Study Background
Researchers at the University of Colorado Boulder and University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus are examining the relationship between hypertension and inner ear function.
Hearing loss can be influenced by many factors, including noise exposure and older age. Through this research study, we want to learn more about how hypertension (high blood pressure) may also affect inner ear function.
By investigating the differences in inner ear function between Black and white adults with and without hypertension, we hope to improve early detection of hearing loss for at-risk populations.
Study Background
Researchers at the University of Colorado Boulder and University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus are examining the relationship between hypertension and inner ear function.
Hearing loss can be influenced by many factors, including noise exposure and older age. Through this research study, we want to learn more about how hypertension (high blood pressure) may also affect inner ear function.
By investigating the differences in inner ear function between Black and white adults with and without hypertension, we hope to improve early detection of hearing loss for at-risk populations.
Additional Information
The purpose of this research study is to learn more about inner ear function between Black and white adults with and without hypertension and how this may affect hearing loss.
You may qualify for this study if you meet the following criteria.
Inclusion Criteria:
- Identify as Black/African American
- Have normal blood pressure (systolic BP <120 and diastolic BP <80 mm Hg and unmedicated)
- Do not have diabetes
- Do not smoke tobacco currently
- No outer and/or middle ear conditions
- No use of certain chemotherapies
- Ages 18-85
This study involves one 30-minute screening session and one 2-hour evaluation, both of which are conducted in person.
The 30-minute screening session will include a blood pressure assessment, glucose finger prick, cognitive screening, a short noise exposure questionnaire, otoscopy (looking in the ear), and tympanometry (a test where we measure changes in ear pressure).
During the 2-hour session, you may be asked to answer questionnaires, complete a standard hearing test, and complete speech in noise testing. During this session, you will also have otoacoustic emission measurements taken, which requires no active participation. During this part of the session, you will simply be asked to sit quietly while we play sounds to their ears and record the response (“emissions”) the ear creates.
As a participant, you can receive $15/hour for your participation. If you travel more than 40 miles to the study site, you can also receive an additional $15.
Total possible compensation is $68.
There is no cost for you to participate in our research study.
COMIRB #22-2100
