The American Cancer Society is working on one of its biggest research projects ever — a study that will have an impact on the ability to prevent cancer and create more birthdays. The society needs help in Rowan County and surrounding areas.

The cancer society is looking for 300,000 men and women between the ages of 30 and 65 who have never had cancer to join the third generation American Cancer Society’s Cancer Prevention Study (or CPS-3). This study will help explain what causes cancer and how to prevent it.

Rowan County has been selected to host a CPS3 enrollment because of its dedication to Relay for Life.

For each generation, the American Cancer Society conducts what a Cancer Prevention Study (CPS). Researchers follow that generation, so researchers can use the information and apply what they learn to the next generation to save more lives. ACS wants at least 300 participants from various racial/ethnic backgrounds to participate in Rowan County.

Local enrollment will take place during Oct. 22 and 26 in Salisbury, in partnership with The Gateway Building and the J.F. Hurley Family YMCA. To see the schedule of dates, times and locations, visit cps3rowan.org.

Participation is easy. Just follow these simple steps:

• Schedule an appointment by visiting cps3rowan.org.

• Follow the link in the confirmation email to complete the first survey online, from wherever you are. This survey will take approximately 45-60 minutes to complete.

• Go to the appointment and complete a brief survey, sign an informed consent, provide a waist circumference measurement and a small blood sample (similar to a doctor’s visit). The in-person enrollment should last no longer than 30 minutes.

After people are enrolled in the study, they will receive shorter surveys every few years to update information. Participants will also receive annual study newsletters to update the research results.

For more information about CPS-3, please visit cancer.org/cps3, email cps3@cancer.org or call toll-free 1-888-604-5888.