In Which I Become a Medical Statistic

[drplokta]

Just got a letter asking me to take part in UK Biobank, which is apparently the largest long-term longitudinal study of health outcomes. Since they're trying to sign up 500,000 people between 40 and 69, which is probably around 1 in 40 of that total age group, it's quite likely that one or two of my friends list will get similar letter.

I have to go along for a 90 minute assessment in June (on a Saturday, how sensible of them), when they'll ask some questions and do some basic measurements (height, weight, waist size, bone density, blood pressure and lung function) and take blood and urine samples. Should be interesting, and this kind of study will eventually be immensely helpful in working out things like whether or not obesity really is bad for your health.

Comments

[twinfair.livejournal.com]

I did it about six months ago. It was interesting and they give you a quick tick list after to point out any obvious health risks. I thought the bone analyser was cool (and I have good bones) and the only negative was my BMI was a bit high but I could have guessed that - it was more reassuring that nothing else appeared to be of concern. The safeguards seemed to me to be adequate.

When I was sat at the computer, my next door neighbour was placed next to me which made us laugh, but caused them a bit of a panic and they offered to move her away if she wanted. Almost immediately after she said she was fine with it, the computer started asking me all the, erm, most personal questions. She couldn't see my answers I am sure. It is a pity they didn't offer the answer "I wish". :)