A historic study in the fight against cancer will take place in Oklahoma this fall.
The American Cancer Society study will follow volunteers for more than 20 years to help researchers get a better idea of how factors such as genetics, lifestyle and environment plays roles in causing or preventing cancer.
"Cancer
is a mystery there so many different factors involved," said Oklahoma Regional Vice President of the American Cancer Society, Lesa Foster.
The commitment is 20 years but cancer survivor, Kelly Rapp, told FOX23 that that is a small time frame in the scheme of things.
"It could be for your future kids or your future grandkids that benefit from you participating in this study," Kelly said.
The study is open to people who are between 30 and 65 years old, and who have never been diagnosed with cancer.
The study is being referred to as CPS-3. It the third of its kind for the American Cancer Society but the first to take place in Oklahoma. Community Development Director for the American Cancer Society, Kristen Taylor, said the previous tests were very significant for cancer research.
"Smoking being linked as a significant cause of cancer, weight being a factor and also lack of physical activity as a factor came from previous studies," Taylor said.
The American Cancer Society is looking for a diverse group to participate in the study. You have a month to decide whether or not you want to participate but Kelly said, it only takes on day in your life to understand the need.
"You just really don't know who might tell you tomorrow, I've been diagnosed," Kelly said.
Enrollment is scheduled from September 9th-16th at eight locations in Tulsa. A blood sample, comprehensive healthy survey, and physical measurements will be taken at the time of enrollment.
