Health study celebrates volunteer efforts

The Busselton Population Medical Research Institute's Busselton Health Study is celebrating the efforts of two local volunteers who have clocked up 10 years of service each at the centre.

Since joining the group as volunteers, Jean Chant and Peter Coates have assisted by recruiting study participants and processing study documentation on numerous projects, including major surveys of respiratory health, diabetes and the current Busselton Baby Boomer Study.

Mrs Chant, who volunteers on Fridays, said she was involved with the study because she believed the research was essential.

Centre Director Dr Michael Hunter said the work performed by Peter and Jean and all of the centre's volunteers had been crucial to the success of the Busselton Health Studies.

"Through their efforts the surveys enjoy some of the highest participation rates in the world, ensuring the data we collect is in high demand from the world's leading medical researchers," he said.

Jean said while the Busselton Health Study is one of the world's longest-running population health and medical research programs, some people still didn't realise how important it was and she urged anyone who could get involved to do it.

For volunteer opportunities, contact the centre on 9754 0548.