Leading women's health survey on for young and old
University of Newcastle researchers are calling for young women to get involved in shaping the next chapter of one of Australia’s longest-running women’s health studies.
With an additional $5.3 million in Australian Government funding, the Australian Longitudinal Study on Women’s Health (ALSWH) will study its next cohort of women aged 18 – 23.
Project Deputy Director, Deborah Loxton, said researchers wanted to hear from women aged 18 – 23 to gain a better understanding of preferred survey methods, ‘no go’ zones and how to get young women engaged.
“These preparatory workshops are a great opportunity to play a big role in shaping the next phase of Australia’s most comprehensive survey of women’s health.
“The oldest participants in the ALSWH are 90 and they have been part of the study for almost two decades.
“The health data shared by these women and 40,000 other participants has provided policy makers and services providers with invaluable information. These women have directly influenced the services and support we receive today.
“ALSWH researchers will soon be calling on 10,000 women - the next generation aged 18 - 23 - to continue the story.
First though we need to do our groundwork and explore with this age group the best ways to engage the new cohort.”
The workshops will be conducted during September in Newcastle, Wollongong, North Sydney, Campbelltown and Broken Hill in NSW, and in Queensland later in the month.
The first ALSWH survey for women aged 18 – 23 is expected to commence in March 2012.
The Australian Government supported ALSWH is a joint project between the University of Newcastle and the University of Queensland. For the latest report visit http://www.alswh.org.au.
Women interested in participating in the preparatory workshops should contact Clare Rooney on 1800 068 081.
Newcastle-based researchers work in collaboration with HMRI - a partnership with the University of Newcastle, Hunter New England Health and the community.
For interviews with Dr Loxton please contact 02 4913 8872.
Media contact: Tess Campbell, University of Newcastle Media and Public Relations, 02 4921 8714.