15,792
participants

The Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities (ARIC) study’s large cohort was designed to capture a more diverse sample of participants. ARIC represents the largest study of heart health in African Americans in the United States.
Study investigators also wanted to include participants from rural areas in different parts of the nation (Forsyth County, NC and Washington County, MD) along with urban areas in northern and southern states (Minneapolis, MN and Jackson, MS).

2858
publications

Scientific research seeks to broaden medical knowledge and improve treatment by sharing breakthroughs, best practices, and new information. Connecting qualified researchers to ARIC data and helping them shape proposed publications is central to the study’s mission.
ARIC’s scientific publications are all peer-reviewed, with many articles published in top-tier journals. Peer review means that professionals from the same disciplines or field review the work to ensure it is accurate, relevant, and important.
ARIC data includes many endpoints and covariates collected over more than three decades. With the addition of cognitive data, there is much more to learn about the relationship between cognitive function and vascular health.

80% of eligible participants still active in ARIC!

From ARIC’s original study cohort of nearly 15,792 participants, 80% of eligible participants are still active in the study though telephone followup. 50% of eligible participants take part in the ongoing clinical exams. Participants stay in the study for a variety of reasons, but primarily because they believe in the contributions they’ve made – and will continue to make – to the health of future generations.
Also, participants receive detailed information about their own health from ongoing comprehensive clinical exams. Through their participation in ARIC for more than three decades, they’ve inspired family members to learn more about their health and to consider taking part in health studies.
Thanks to our wonderful and committed participants! ARIC would not exist without them and everything they have shared so generously through the years.