FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

How long are participants in this study?

Participation in the primary aim of the study will end after the colonoscopy at 10 years. Participants could be contacted for up to 30 years after joining the study. Participants’ doctors may also be contacted for up to 30 years after their patients join the study to obtain copies of colonoscopy reports or other medical records. The study will follow up participants for up to 30 years in order to learn more about long-term health outcomes.​

How is participant information kept private?

Participant privacy is very important to the study and KPNC. Every effort is made to protect it. Here are just a few of the steps we take:

• All biological specimens (stool, blood) are labeled with a code number.
• Researchers who study samples and information do not know who the participants are and must agree to not try to find out who participants are.
• Once research results are published, participant names and other personal information will not be used.

What if participants need a colonoscopy before their next scheduled colonoscopy?

The study colonoscopy schedule is based on clinical guidelines for routine surveillance. If a patient were to develop symptoms or concerns, they would be able to get a colonoscopy for clinical care when they need it and still stay in the study.​

Who is funding this clinical trial?

The FORTE Study is funded by the National Cancer Institute (NCI).​

How is KPNC involved in FORTE?

KPNC is one of many healthcare sites across the US that are collaborating under NRG Oncology, an organization funded by the National Cancer Institute (NCI).​