For Researchers
Using OHS Data for Research
With 225,000 participants, the Ontario Health Study (OHS) is a rich resource for researchers investigating cancer and other chronic diseases. Researchers can now apply for access to de-identified data and biospecimens collected by the Study.
Approved OHS Research Applications 2012-2023
- Applications using OHS data: 59*
- Applications investigating cancer: 21
- Applications requesting biosamples: 5
- Datasets requested: 57
- ICES data linkage required: 19
- Ontario Health (Cancer Care Ontario) linkage required: 8
- Time to project approval (from a fully-complete application): ~60 days
*Includes 19 applications to use OHS data via CanPath
Here’s what you need to know about using OHS data for research:
- Collaboration amongst researchers is strongly encouraged to maximize the access to and use of Study data and biosamples.
- Access is time-limited and for approved analyses only.
- Proposals will be accepted for access to:
– Questionnaire data
– Physical measures
– Biorepository materials - OHS data can be linked with datasets through data custodians such as ICES and Cancer Care Ontario.
- Only de-identified data and biosamples will be provided to investigators.
- Exclusive access to any data and/or biosamples will not be permitted.
- Researchers will not receive exclusive access to an analysis or question of interest.
Applications will be reviewed by our Data Access Committee who will consider:
- Scientific merit of the research project
- Potential impact on research participants
- Appropriate use of limited resources
