Study Follow-up

During the 25 year study period, subpopulations of participants who have the same genetic polymorphisms may be re-contacted and asked to participate in a follow-up study. The level of participation for these studies will vary depending on the scientific hypothesis under investigation. These future studies will most likely involve filling out a questionnaire or taking a telephone survey, but may involve being interviewed, giving another blood sample or having a physical examination and diagnostic tests. If you are re-contacted, we will not ask you to participate in more than one study per year.

A person who initially participates in the EPR by donating a blood sample is not required to participate in the follow-up studies, although we hope she or he will. All follow-up studies will be completely voluntary at the time. If a person does agree to participate in one, she or he will be asked to sign a new consent form at the time.