Here are answers to the most commonly asked questions about the California Teachers Study (CTS):
Are you accepting new participants?
The California Teachers Study is a closed study, which means that all study participants were enrolled at the beginning of the study in 1995 and are the only participants who will be followed for the duration of the study. By following the same participants over 20 years, CTS researchers can track the development of diseases and other health outcomes in our study population.
What’s the expected duration of the study?
There is no anticipated end date to the California Teachers Study. We plan to keep doing the study for as long as there are interesting research ideas to pursue. Part of the great value of a study like the CTS is collecting data over a long period of time.
How often do you send out surveys?
We send surveys to study participants ever few years. Before Questionnaire 6, the most recent questionnaire was sent in 2012. In between survey mailings, California Teachers Study researchers analyze your questionnaire answers to investigate the causes of cancer and other health outcomes. To learn more about past questionnaires and their topic areas, visit our questionnaires page.
Am I too old to participate?
Never! There is no upper age limit. We have study participants who are over 100 years old, and we are delighted to have each and every one of you participate.
Can I continue if I no longer live in California?
Absolutely! Many of our participants have now moved to other states – or even other countries. Just be sure to provide us with your updated contact information so that we can reach you.
If I have changed professions and am no longer a teacher or administrator, am I still eligible?
Yes! All of our study participants were part of CALSTRS (the California State Teachers’ Retirement System) in 1995. However, since then may have retired or switched careers. We’re thrilled to have you continue participating.
How can I keep in touch with you?
We love hearing from study participants. Whether it’s a comment, question, or just an update about your life or health that you would like to share, please let us know!
We can be reached in three different ways:
By phone: 1-800-568-9471
By email: calteachersstudy@coh.org
Via our website: www.calteachersstudy.org/contact-us