Active Follow-Up of Participants of a Population-Based Specimen Bank
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to enhance the resources of the existing population-based specimen bank by updating information, and expanding information collected in 1989. Particular emphasis was placed on updating risk factors for breast cancer so that gene-environment interactions leading to breast cancer may be investigated. Since the resources of serum banks become more valuable with time, as cohorts mature, providing more cases of cancer for investigation, it is important to ascertain storage stability over time. Therefore the second major objective of this proposal was to continue to obtain information on changes in the concentration of various analytes in plasma and blood cells associated with long-term storage at -70 deg C. The hypothesis tested was the null hypothesis that there will be no change in concentration with storage time. From May through November 1989, a campaign (Clue II) was conducted in Washington County, Maryland, to collect blood for a specimen bank. A total of 32,898 persons participated. Participants donated 20 ml of blood, gave a brief medical history, completed a food frequency questionnaire and returned a toenail for trace metal studies. In order to use the specimen bank to its fullest potential, additional data was required, primarily on known and suspected risk factors for cancer. This information was obtained by three self-administered mailed questionnaires mailed approximately 18 months apart. The optical mark readable questionnaires included questions on smoking status, weight changes, use of exogenous hormones, medical conditions, detailed family history of cancer, screening history, history of breast biopsies, medical history, medication and vitamin use, exercise history and other potential risk factors for cancer particularly breast cancer.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 2001
- Accession Number
- ADA391399
Entities
People
- Kathy J. Helzlsouer
Organizations
- Johns Hopkins University