DNA Data and Privacy

All data is securely stored at the University of Calgary in a secure, password protected database. Each participant is assigned a study ID (not their name), and the link between the two is kept in a separate secure location.

Only approved study team members. Authorized oversight bodies (Alberta Precision Labs, the Conjoint Health Research Ethics Board, or the University of Calgary) may also review data to ensure the safety and ethics of the study. 

Never. Your data will not be shared with insurance companies, employers, or any third-party companies.

Only if you consent. The consent form lets you choose whether your samples can be used for future mental health research, in de-identified form and under approved ethical protocols. You can change your mind at any time.

Yes. Canada's Genetic Non-Discrimination Act (SC 2017, c. 3) protects genetic information. We follow Canadian privacy standards, and any data or sample sharing only occurs under approved research protocols.