This study aims to evaluate whether high-frequency QRS (HF-QRS) signal parameters and circulating myocardial fibrosis biomarkers (such as PIIINP, Galectin-3, and sST2) can improve risk stratification in patients with chronic heart failure (CHF). In this prospective, multicenter cohort study (STRIVE cohort), patients with CHF will be enrolled and followed for 18 months. Clinical data, routine heart function measures (such as NT-proBNP and LVEF), HF-QRS features from standard 12-lead ECG, and serum fibrosis biomarker levels will be collected. The study will assess the association of HF-QRS abnormalities and fibrosis biomarker levels with major clinical outcomes, including cardiovascular mortality, first heart failure-related rehospitalization, malignant arrhythmia events, all-cause rehospitalization and mortality. By integrating electrophysiological and molecular markers, this research aims to develop a novel, non-invasive predictive model to support early risk identification and personalized management of heart failure patients.
Age ≥18 years and ≤85 years
Diagnosis of chronic heart failure (CHF) based on ESC 2021 and AHA/ACC/HFSA 2022 guidelines
Presence of typical symptoms (e.g., exercise intolerance, dyspnea, orthopnea, paroxysmal nocturnal dyspnea, or fatigue) and signs (e.g., lower extremity edema, jugular venous distension, pulmonary rales)
Elevated NT-proBNP (>125 pg/mL, adjusted for BMI if >25 kg/m²)
End-stage renal disease requiring dialysis
Severe chronic pulmonary disease (e.g., moderate-to-severe COPD, pulmonary fibrosis)
Active malignancy or life expectancy <1 year
Severe anemia (Hb <8 g/dL) or uncontrolled thyroid dysfunction