We’d be hard-pressed to find someone in Andalusia, Covington County, or these United States whose life hadn’t been touched in some way by cancer.

That’s why we believe that local residents will blow the top off of the American Cancer Society’s stated goal of getting 250 area residents to participate in their Cancer Prevention Study-3 (CPS3).

The study is designed to help researchers understand the genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors that cause or prevent cancer. Participants will enroll and schedule a time on Nov. 13 or 14 to have blood drawn at PowerSouth, the Cancer Society’s local corporate partner. Meanwhile, they will complete a comprehensive survey, expected to take about 45 minutes, about their health and family histories.

Every two years for 20 to 30 years, participants will receive additional surveys to complete.

Anyone who is aged 30 to 65, and who has not been personally diagnosed with cancer (other than basal or squamous cell skin cancer) is eligible to participate.

All of us knows someone who has suffered with this deadly disease. Approximately on ein every three women, and one of every two men will suffer from cancer.

But this study gives us hope that more causes and preventative measures will be identified, making it less likely that our children or grandchildren will know cancer’s face.

Enrollment is simple. Visit www.cps3covington.org or call toll-free, 1.888.604.5888.