Massive Research Study Under Way

Half a million is the number of people the American Cancer Society plans to enroll within the next five years in its third Cancer Prevention Study, or CPS-3. The goal of the Cancer Prevention Studies— the first of which dates back to 1959—is to examine lifestyle, behavioral, environmental, and genetic factors that may play a role in preventing or initiating cancer.

Previous studies helped identify the link between tobacco smoke and lung cancer and the connection between physical activity and lower risk of some cancers, including breast and colon.

Participants must be between 30 and 65 years old with no history of cancer. Informed consent, waist measurements, a survey, and a blood sample are required at enrollment, which will take place at various Relay for Life events around the country. Participants will be tracked for at least the next two decades through mailed questionnaires. For more information on CPS-3, visit www.cancer.org.