Prince George, B.C. – Prince George is now home to a BC Cancer Agency’s BC Generations Project clinic. It opened its doors this morning and is open to anyone aged 35 – 69 who would like to take part in this study.
This is the largest cancer prevention study in Canadian History and will look at how factors such as genetics, environment, lifestyle and behaviour contrtibute to the risk of developing cancer, diabetes and heart disease.
BC Generations Project principal investigator John Spinelli says every participant’s anonymous information will contribute to cancer studies for decades to come. “You have the opportunity to reduce the occurrence of cancer and chronic diseases in the future. All that’s required is that you are between 35 and 69 years old and live in B.C.,” he says. “It’s a huge opportunity for our generation to do something for future generations.”
The study aims to collect health information, along with blood and urine samples, of 40,000 British Columbians, as part of a national study called the Canadian Partnership for Tomorrow Project that is recruiting 300,000 Canadians from five provinces.
“Most everyone has been impacted by cancer, whether themselves, their family, or a friend,” says LaDonna Fehr, director of clinical operations-systemic therapy, BC Cancer Agency’s Centre for the North, and Prince George resident.
“Working with cancer patients over the years, I have watched as they and their family members anguish with feelings of powerlessness in the face of a cancer diagnosis. The BC Generations Project assessment clinic provides every Prince George resident with the opportunity to take an active role in helping researchers better understand the lifestyle and genetic factors linked to cancer and chronic disease. This study is significant for the future health of our community. I encourage you to learn more about how you can take part while the assessment clinic is in town.”
Northerners can participate in the study through a mail-in survey, or, for residents living in or close to Prince George, the assessment clinic will run from June 7 to July 9. The temporary clinic is located at 1777 Third Ave, Suite 300.
You can find more information on the project by visiting bcgenerationsproject@bccrc.ca or bcgen-2017-10.dev
