[This is an adaptation of the pamphlet sent to us, to be shared "... in whatever way ..." with our clients.]
Schizophrenia Genetics Project Staff
National Institue of Mental Health
Clinical Neurogenetics Branch
The Staff of the Clinical Neurogenetics Branch invites families with two or more siblings who have experienced schizophrenia to join our sturdy. Parents are also asked to participate.
Earlier Studies suggest that an inborn tendency to develop schizophrenia runs in some families. However, most relatives will never develop the illness.
In our family studies we look for the genes which may be causing some family members to be at risk for a psychological disorder. As we discover the nature of each gene, we will be able to develop better treatments.
We urge individuals suffering from schizophrenia, along with their family members, to participate in a scientific study which will help us better understand the causes of this disorder.
Schizophrenia is a complex disorder. The majority of persons with schizophrenia suffer at some point from either hallucinations or delusional thinking. They may be unable to interpret or respond to what is going on around them. Their sense of self may be altered. Emotions, behavior, and body motions may be inappropriate. Some ill persons can be self-supporting, but the majority must rely on their families or government programs.
Many persons who sufer from schizophrenia, or who have a close relative with the disorder, have already brought their families into the study. The reason most often given is, "If I can help prevent this from happening to anyone else, I'll do anything." These families share our hope that finding genetic markers and vulnerability genes for this disoorder will help medical researchers understand more about its pphysical basis. As a result, we will be able to develop more effective medications.
You are an essential player in the research. Without the help of people like you and your family, no study of inherited traits can be done and little progress will be made. We depend on your participation.
Usually someone who suffers from the disorder, or a close relative, calls or writes us. We do an initial screening and inquire about the minimum of two living siblings with schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder. We ask permission to write a letter to relatives, explaining the program and inviting participation. Those who accept send back a form noting the best time for us to call.
An interview and a sample of blood
Scheduling is done to best suit the family member. While most of the work is done by telephone, in some instances we will be able to come to the homes of participants. Weekend and evening appointments are available for those who need them. No travel is needed.
All of the information obtained by the Family/Genetic Study will remain completely confidential, even among family members.
When research papers are published, no names or other identifying information about individual participants will appear.
Please call our Social Work Staff at (301)496-8977 (collect). They will be glad to answer any of your questions.
If you prefer, fill out the information below and we will contact you directly.
[Print, fill out, and mail this form. It is not an internet-sendable form.]
Name:
Address:
City:
State:
ZIP code:
Telephone, including area code:
Best Time to Call:
[This is an adaptation of the pamphlet sent to us, to be shared "... in whatever way ..." with our clients.]