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REPEL

Research on the Epidemiology of Prostate Cancer and Environmental Levels

Join Our Study: Understanding Chemicals in Drinking Water and Prostate Cancer

 

What Is This Study About?

We’re conducting a research study to learn whether chemicals found in drinking water—specifically per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS)—might affect the health of men diagnosed with prostate cancer. PFAS have been linked to several types of cancer, but we still don’t know if they play a role in how prostate cancer develops or progresses. This study is one of the first to explore that question.

Who Can Join the Study?

We’re currently enrolling participants for a research study on drinking water chemicals and prostate cancer. If you’re interested in taking part, here’s what you need to know about who is eligible:

You May Be Eligible If You:

  • Are 20 years or older

  • Have been diagnosed with prostate cancer

  • Are receiving or have received treatment at Rutgers Cancer Institute

  • Live in New Jersey as your primary residence

  • Can read, write, and speak in English

When Can You Join?

  • If you had radiation or surgery as your main treatment, you can join between 3 and 12 months after your treatment ends

  • If you’re on active surveillance (monitoring your cancer rather than treating it right away), you can join any time after your diagnosis

What Will You Be Asked to Do?

If you decide to join the study, we’ll ask you to:

  • Complete a one-time, 35-minute interview with a trained member of our team

  • Provide a small blood sample (to measure PFAS levels)

  • Provide a sample of your home tap water (to test for PFAS)

  • Allow us to review information from your medical records related to your prostate cancer diagnosis and treatment

The total time for sample collection is about 20–30 minutes, and we will coordinate everything to be as easy and convenient as possible for you.

What Are the Risks and Benefits?

There are some minimal risks, including slight discomfort, bruising, or infection where blood is drawn, and the sharing of personal health and address information. We reduce these risks by using experienced staff and keeping your data secure and confidential.

By participating, you’ll be contributing to groundbreaking research that could help improve outcomes for men with prostate cancer. You may also receive early updates about findings from the study and play a part in advancing public health for future generations.

Will Incentives be Provided for Participating in the Study?

Participants who consent to participate, complete the study questionnaire, provide a blood sample, and provide a tap water sample will receive a $50 Amazon gift card.

Have Other Patients Agreed to Participate?

As of April 23, 2025, 20 patients have agreed to participate. We plan to enroll 100 participants in this pilot study, with plans to expand recruitment after preliminary results are available.

What Has the Study Found So Far?

We are still in the process of recruiting participants, so no results are available yet. However, we will make sure to share aggregated results as they become available.

Who Can I Contact For More Information?

You can contact our team at repel@cinj.rutgers.edu. If you’re unsure whether you qualify, or if you have any questions, our research team is happy to talk with you and help determine your eligibility. We’re here to support you every step of the way.