RecruitingNCT00233272

Baltimore Longitudinal Study of Aging

The Baltimore Longitudinal Study of Aging (BLSA)


Sponsor

National Institute on Aging (NIA)

Enrollment

10,000 participants

Start Date

Feb 3, 2014

Study Type

OBSERVATIONAL

Conditions

Summary

Background: \- The Baltimore Longitudinal Study of Aging (BLSA) is a clinical research program on human aging that began in 1958. Volunteers of different ages join the study when they are healthy, and have follow-up visits for life. Visits last for multiple days. Participants are evaluated for many physical elements as well as for brain function. Physical tests are given. Information on mood, personality, and social aspects of life is also collected. This program has contributed more than any other research project to our understanding of aging. Objectives: \- To characterize the many aspects of the aging process and learn how people can successfully adapt to aging. Eligibility: \- Healthy individuals at least 20 years old. Design: * Participants will receive a booklet and video describing the tests they will take. * During a 3-day visit at the study hospital, participants will take the following tests: * Urine will be collected for 24 hours. Blood samples will be taken. A small piece of muscle tissue may be collected by a needle. * A medical questionnaire and a physical exam will be given. * Participants hearts will be tested, including with blood pressure tests and electronic monitors. They will breathe into a tube to test their lungs. * Participants will perform several exercises, including treadmill walking. * Vision, hearing, and taste will be tested. * Bone and joint X-rays may be taken. * Imaging tests will be given, such as an MRI. * Participants will answer questions to test their mental abilities. * Participants will return for follow-up visits every few years for life. The tests listed above will be given at every visit.


Eligibility

Min Age: 20 YearsMax Age: 120 Years

Plain Language Summary

Simplified for easier understanding

The Baltimore Longitudinal Study of Aging (BLSA) is one of the longest-running scientific studies of human aging, tracking how the body and mind change over time in healthy adults. Participants undergo comprehensive physical, cognitive, and laboratory assessments over many years. You may be eligible if: - You are 20 years of age or older - You are generally healthy and can perform daily activities independently, walk 400 meters without symptoms, and climb stairs without shortness of breath - You weigh 300 lbs or less with a BMI of 40 or less - You have no history of major chronic diseases (cardiovascular disease, diabetes requiring medication, active cancer in the past 10 years, neurological disease, kidney/liver disease, severe psychiatric conditions) - You agree to genetic sample collection You may NOT be eligible if: - You have HIV, Hepatitis B or C, or syphilis - You have significant lab abnormalities (very low hemoglobin, high creatinine, elevated liver enzymes, etc.) - You have an established genetic disease, or cognitive impairment Talk to your doctor to see if this trial is right for you.

This summary was AI-generated to explain the trial in plain language. It is not medical advice. Always discuss eligibility with your doctor before enrolling in a clinical trial.

Interested in this trial?

Get notified about updates and connect with the research team.


Locations(1)

National Institute of Aging, Clinical Research Unit

Baltimore, Maryland, United States

View Full Details on ClinicalTrials.gov

For the most up-to-date information, visit the official listing.

Visit

NCT00233272


Related Trials