Integrated Whole-Life Cycle Accuracy Valvular Heart Disease Epidemiology Cohort Study (iWAVE): protocol for a prospective cohort study

Despite the rapid advancements in cardiovascular surgery in China, the prevalence of valvular heart disease (VHD) continues to rise, particularly among the elderly population. In the resource-constrained western regions, the lack of an integrated care management system significantly contributes to the burden of cardiovascular disease. Consequently, a comprehensive cohort data platform that encompasses the entire lifespan of patients with VHD is essential. This prospective cohort study aims to facilitate the examination of risk factor screening, disease progression, diagnostic and treatment strategies, and the long-term functional recovery trajectories of patients following valve surgery. The Integrated Whole-Life Cycle Accuracy Valvular Heart Disease Epidemiology Cohort Study is a prospective cohort study that plans to enrol approximately 10 000 participants, including both patients with VHD and members of the general population, by 2028. Led by the West China Hospital of Sichuan University, it will be conducted in collaboration with 15 medical consortiums and their affiliated community hospitals. This study seeks to assess the disease trajectory of VHD, as well as the risk factors and protective measures that influence its progression and prognosis. This study will collect and analyse basic demographic information, peripheral blood and tissue samples, long-term functional follow-up data, and patient-reported outcome questionnaires. Additionally, electronic health records will be used to document patients with VHD undergoing surgical interventions, along with lifetime endpoint events for the valve clinical study. The study protocol was approved by the Biomedical Research Ethics Committee of West China Hospital of Sichuan University (No. 20232422). All participants will be required to provide written informed consent. The study findings will be disseminated via publications in peer-reviewed journals and presentations at scientific conferences.