The American Cancer Society is seeking cancer fighters in the Farmville area who would like to help spread the word about the importance of participating in Cancer Prevention Study-3 (CPS-3), a historic nationwide study to help researchers better understand the genetic, environmental and lifestyle factors that cause or prevent cancer. Historically, CPS-1 established the link between smoking and lung cancer and CPS-2 examined the impact of environmental and lifestyle factors on cancer.

The study will kick off on Wednesday, July 10, 3:30 – 4:30 p.m. at Centra PACE, 1530 S. Main St., Farmville, and again on Wednesday, July 17, 6:30-7:30 p.m. at Farmville-Prince Edward Community Library, 1303 W. Third St., Farmville.

At the kickoff, those interested in helping drive CPS-3 awareness will learn about CPS-3 and receive the tools needed to educate and recruit area residents to enroll in CPS-3. Enrollment will take place Thursday, September 19, from 4 until 6:30 p.m. and Saturday, September 21, from 9 a.m. until 12:30 p.m. at the Historic Farmville Train Station (510 W. Third St.).

“This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to participate in lifesaving cancer research,” said Patti Jackson, area executive director for the American Cancer Society. “In order to research the enrollment targets, we need passionate people who are committed to fighting cancer. While the American Cancer Society has been conducting these types of studies for decades, their world-class research department can only study new and emerging cancer risks if members of the community are willing to become involved.”

Anyone interested in becoming a champion is welcome – including cancer survivors, caregivers or those honoring a friend or loved one who has battled cancer. Study enrollee requirements are: men and women ages of 30 to 65 who have never been diagnosed with cancer (except for basal or squamous cell skin carcinoma); provide a waist measurement and give a small blood sample, and complete a comprehensive survey and out follow-up surveys every few years.

To serve as a CPS-3 Champion and RSVP for kickoff, contact Robert Noriega at 804-527-3772 or robert.noriega@cancer.org. For more information about CPS-3 and to enroll in the study, visit cps3farmville.org.