Journal Staff
The Ontario Health Study is looking for blood.
Blood samples, that is.
On the heels of a successful campaign last year, officials are making one last call out to Sarnians between the ages of 30 and 74 to participate in a study that could lead to new findings on cancer and certain chronic disease.
By tallying questionnaire data and blood samples, the study aims to build a platform for researchers to use in developing new treatments.
“The real focus for us right now is collecting as many blood samples as possible before the end of March,” said OHS program manager Kelly McDonald.
“I’d love to see us reach 40,000 samples.”
Sarnia-area residents interested in participating are encouraged to visit www.ontariohealthstudy.ca.
Blood samples are critical to the study’s success. When combined with other data collected through questionnaires researchers can establish how an individual’s genes interact with environmental factors and impact their health over time.
The deadline to register and provide a blood sample at LifeLabs in Sarnia is March 31.
Eligible participants can access a LifeLabs requisition for the Blood Collection program after registering for the study online and completing a short questionnaire.