The University of Toronto is recruiting postmenopausal women with or without breast cancer to participate in a research study named STRIVE (Studying Endocrine Therapy Impacts on Cardiovascular and Brain Health Outcomes in Breast Cancer). Participation involves a series of non-invasive tests to measure metrics of cardiovascular and brain health in women who have had breast cancer and in women who have not had cancer for comparison. This study is led by Dr. Amy Kirkham and funded by the Cancer Research Society and the Canadian Institute of Health Research.

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Study Goals

Our research team is interested in uncovering the long-term effects of aromatase inhibitor therapy for breast cancer on heart and brain health so that we can provide better health care recommendations to reduce the risk of other health conditions after breast cancer treatment. To do this, we need to learn more about the hearts and brains of women with and without breast cancer because, historically, women have been studied less than men.

Are you eligible?

In addition to being female, post-menopausal, and able to travel to the University of Toronto (downtown St. George campus) for a single 4-hour visit, you must meet ONE of the following criteria to participate:

1. Have been diagnosed with early-stage, hormone-positive breast cancer between 4 and 11 years ago, and have taken an aromatase inhibitor medication (e.g., anastrozole, letrozole, exemestane) for at least two years total at any point since your diagnosis OR
2. Have not been diagnosed with any form of cancer.

If you have had breast cancer but do not meet these criteria, see our other breast cancer studies here. 

What Does the Study Involve?

If you are eligible to participate, you will be asked to attend one scheduled in-person study visit, and one session that can be completed virtually within two weeks.

The study involves in-person assessments such as non-invasive measures of the heart, blood vessel, brain vessel, cognitive function, a blood test, and a fitness assessment. These measures will be collected on-site at the University of Toronto in downtown Toronto (Bloor and St. George). The study also involves an assessment done at home (virtual) where we measure protein levels in your urine and breath. We understand this is a challenging time commitment for many women, so we are pleased to be able to offer up to $200 compensation for your time to complete them, along with parking or public transportation to come in-person. Please simply ask if there are any further accommodations that we can arrange to make your participation possible.

Want to Learn More? Contact us!

If this sounds interesting and you would like to learn more about participating, the first step will be to complete a survey to determine if you meet the initial eligibility criteria for the study. If your responses suggest that you may be eligible, you will be asked to provide your first name, phone number, and an email address at the end of the survey and book a time to speak to a study team member by phone. During the phone call, the rest of the details of the study will be explained to you so that you can decide if you want to participate.

Access the survey link here:

Complete Survey