Information for Researchers

The Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis (MESA) is a study of the characteristics of subclinical cardiovascular disease (disease detected non-invasively before it has produced clinical signs and symptoms) and the risk factors that predict progression to clinically overt cardiovascular disease or progression of the subclinical disease. MESA researchers study a diverse, population-based sample of 6,500 asymptomatic men and women aged 45-84. Approximately 40 percent of the recruited participants are white, 30 percent African-American, 20 percent Hispanic, and 10 percent Asian, predominantly of Chinese descent.

Participants are recruited from six field centers across the United States. Each participant receives an extensive physical exam to determine coronary calcification, ventricular mass and function, flow-mediated endothelial vasodilation, carotid intimal-medial wall thickness and presence of echogenic lucencies in the carotid artery, lower extremity vascular insufficiency, arterial wave forms, electrocardiographic (ECG) measures, standard coronary risk factors, sociodemographic factors, lifestyle factors, and psychosocial factors. Selected repetition of subclinical disease measures and risk factors at follow-up visits will allow study of the progression of disease. Blood samples will be assayed for putative biochemical risk factors and stored for case-control studies. DNA will be extracted and lymphocytes immortalized for study of candidate genes and possibly, genome-wide scanning. Participants will be followed for identification and characterization of cardiovascular disease events, including acute myocardial infarction and other forms of coronary heart disease (CHD), stroke, and congestive heart failure; for cardiovascular disease interventions; and for mortality.

In addition to the six Field Centers, MESA involves a Coordinating Center, a Central Laboratory, and Central Reading Centers for Computed Tomography (CT), Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), Ultrasound, and Electrocardiography (ECG). Protocol development, staff training, and pilot testing were performed in the first 18 months of the study. The first examination takes place over two years, from July 2000-July 2002. It is followed by two 18-month examination periods and an additional two-year examination period. Participants are contacted every 9 to 12 months throughout the study to assess clinical morbidity and mortality. The final 18 months of the study are dedicated to close out and data analysis and publication.

MESA Coordinating Center, Seattle, WA
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