Cancer study enrollment event set for Cumberland County

(Lancaster) — People across the midstate have one last chance to sign up for the American Cancer Society’s Cancer Prevention Study-3, as nationwide enrollment closes at the end of the year.

The CPS-3 study is open to anyone between the ages of 30 and 65 who has never been diagnosed with cancer. The only other prerequisite is that they are willing to complete periodic follow-up surveys over the next 20 to 30 years.

Dee Mathis, the society’s senior representative of the community engagement, says it may be a long-term commitment, but it’s not a lot of work.

“What are the chances in your lifetime to actually be able to participate in a research study, with this minimal amount of involvement, and be able to know that you’re making a difference, that maybe someday someone won’t have to hear the words you have cancer,” she explains.

Participants are being asked to preregister online. Then, they can enroll at the West Shore YMCA in Camp Hill on November 6th, 7th or 8th.

The study is designed to help researchers better understand the genetic, environmental and lifestyle factors that cause and prevent cancer.