The Renfrew/Paisley Study

The Renfrew/Paisley Study

The Renfrew/Paisley study is a general population study of 15,402 middle-aged men and women. It took place from 1972-1976. All residents aged 45-64 living in the large burghs of Renfrew and Paisley situated in the west of Scotland beyond Glasgow were asked to complete a questionnaire and invited to attend for screening examination at clinics set up nearby. The questionnaire incorporated questions on smoking habit, bronchitis and angina, and clinical data was collected on height, weight, respiratory function, blood pressure, cholesterol, electrocardiogram, chest x-ray and tuberculin Tine test. In all 7049 men and 8353 women took part. Indirect follow-up of mortality was established at the time of the study with the Registrar General for Scotland. In 1973 a return visit was made to Renfrew. All the participants were invited for a further visit between 1977-1979 in which the same procedures were followed. More than 50% of the original attendees returned.

Computer linkage has been established for Scottish Medical Records hospital discharge data and for cancer incidence.

In recent years some survivors from the original Renfrew/Paisley Study cohort have been re-contacted to take part in studies of healthy ageing (PREVAIL) and cognitive functioning.

Figure showing layout of temporary clinic

This figure shows a plan of the accommodation, examination stations and route of examinees in a typical temporary examination centre as was used in the Renfrew/Paisley study. A mobile X-ray unit was positioned outside the entrance.

Ten participants arrived every 10 minutes during each session. Individual questionnaires were checked and standardised. Investigations lasting about 20 minutes were undertaken.