About tissue donation
“Every cell holds a clue that can play a part in the cure. YOU can make a difference to tomorrow’s cancer patients” Professor Julie Campbell
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The Wesley Research Institute Tissue Bank stores cancer and other tissue specimens for use in medical research projects.
The specimens, with matching blood samples and clinical data, are donated by consenting patients during the course of their normal treatment. As part of diagnosis and treatment of cancer and other diseases, doctors remove a sample to send to the pathology lab for testing. Doctors do not remove any additional tissue for the Tissue Bank. Instead, any tissue that remains after pathology testing is complete is provided to the Tissue Bank.
The samples are carefully stored and made available to approved researchers in Australia and around the world who are investigating the origin and progression of diseases, especially cancer.
The Institute urges patients who are considering donating their tissue to discuss their decision with their family and doctor. Outlined below are some questions a patient considering donating his/her tissue may consider.
What is the purpose of the Wesley Research Institute Tissue Bank?
To provide ethically consented human tissue samples for research into cancer and other diseases.
Will donating tissue to the Tissue Bank affect my surgery?
No. Your surgeon will operate as planned and no ‘extra’ tissue is taken during surgery. The Tissue Bank is involved after your surgery, accessing only tissue left over after all pathology needs have been met.
Will donating to the Tissue Bank cost me money?
No. There is no cost to you for donating to the Tissue Bank. Your surgeon and doctors, the pathology company, the hospital and the Tissue Bank will not charge you directly or indirectly.
Is my privacy protected?
Yes. When the Tissue Bank receives your tissue, blood or clinical data (information) they will remove any information that could be used to identify you and replace it with a code. Strict state and federal privacy laws regarding storage of hard copy and computer files are adhered to in the Tissue Bank.
What sort of research do you want my tissue and blood and clinical data (information) for?
Approved research only! Ethical and scientific approvals conforming to the National Health and Medical Research Council of Australia’s requirements must have been granted before a researcher can apply for samples and data from the Tissue Bank. Samples and data (information) are coded to protect your privacy.
Why do you need clinical information (data) about me?
Researchers need it to interpret results they obtain from using your tissue and blood. Information about you such as your age, gender, and treatments received will help researchers understand and compare the many samples they use for research.
Will it affect my pathology tests?
No. All samples sent to the pathologist will be tested as usual; your doctor will be able to tell you about these test results.
Do I have to make extra visits for Tissue Banking?
No.
What happens if I change my mind?
You may withdraw your permission at any time without giving a reason. To do this you will need to contact the Tissue Bank in writing. Your tissue will then be removed.
