Who will be recruited?
We are recruiting adults with newly diagnosed thyroid cancer or adults who had thyroid cancer in the recent or even distant past.
What is the purpose of NATCSS?
NATCSS is designed to provide data on a variety of factors that may influence the quality of life of thyroid cancer survivors. The data will be used to develop improved tools and interventions for persons with thyroid cancer.
Who is conducting the study?
The study is being conducted at the University of Chicago by principal investigators Briseis Aschebrook-Kilfoy, PhD; Raymon Grogan, MD; and their colleagues.
How was I recruited for the study?
You may have been identified as a potential participant for this project because you have previously participated in thyroid cancer research or because you belong to a survivorship organization.
How will you follow up with participants over time?
Participants will be contacted every two to three years to obtain updated contact and health information as necessary.
How will we learn of study results?
Individual research results will not be given to study participants. However, general results that may provide potential medical benefit will be made available to participants through our annual newsletter, the NATCSS News, as well as the NATCSS website.
How often will I receive a NATCSS Newsletter?
You will receive the newsletter once a year.
Why am I so important?
Input from every study participant is essential for the success of the study. We cannot ask another participant to take your place.
Are my responses to the questionnaire important?
Your responses are very important. If participants do not answer the questions in the questionnaire, we may not be able to obtain enough health information to make the NATCSS meaningful. Answers to the questions will be kept strictly confidential and will not be used for any other purpose than our research. The answers will not be shared with anyone.
What do I receive in return for participating in the study?
Your contribution will benefit people now and in the future by bringing us closer to understanding the impact of thyroid cancer on survivor quality of life. In the long-run, your participation will help enable us to develop improved disease treatment strategies and follow-up interventions.
Can participants help identify what health issues will be studied?
If you have suggestions, please let us know by emailing us, calling us or writing to us.
Who can I contact if I have questions about NATCSS?
If you are in the United States you can call us at 773-834-8699, to reach study investigators and research staff at the University of Chicago.
If you are in Canada our Canadian research affiliate is Dr. Elliot Mitmaker at McGill University. He can be contacted via mail or telephone at:
Elliot Mitmaker MD MSc FRCS(C)
Assistant Professor of Surgery, McGill University
Endocrine Surgeon, Department of General Surgery
McGill University Health Centre
Montreal General Hospital
1650 avenue Cedar, Bureau L9.417
Montréal, Québec, Canada
H3G 1A4
Tel – 514-934-1934 Ext 44337
Fax – 514-934-8210
Study investigators can also be reached via email at NATCSS@uchicago.edu.