The Environment, Leiomyomas, Latinas, and Adiposity Study: rationale and design

Area of Science:

• Reproductive Health
• Epidemiology
• Community-Engaged Research

Background:

• Uterine leiomyomas (fibroids) are common benign tumors in women, with prevalence varying by race.
• Previous prevalence data may underestimate fibroids due to reliance on self-diagnosis and lack of research in Latina/Latinx populations.
• Existing data on fibroid association with obesity and diabetes are inconsistent.

Purpose of the Study:

• To quantify uterine fibroid prevalence in Latina/Latinx females using ultrasound.
• To examine the relationship between obesity, glucose dysregulation, and fibroid prevalence and growth.
• To address a significant knowledge gap in reproductive health for this demographic.

Main Methods:

• A 5-year longitudinal cohort study involving 600 Latina/Latinx females aged 21-50.
• Community-engaged research approach with a community advisory board.
• Data collection includes surveys and pelvic ultrasound examinations.

Main Results:

• Successfully enrolled 633 Latina/Latinx females using community-engaged methods.
• Mean participant age is 37.5 years; mean BMI is 30.0 kg/m².
• Initial study visits are underway.

Conclusions:

• The study aims to provide ultrasound-confirmed data on fibroid prevalence and growth in Latina/Latinx females.
• It will investigate associations between obesity and glucose dysregulation with fibroids.
• Findings will inform targeted health strategies for this population.