Major Long-Term Health Study Enters Next Phase - SHIP study launches new health exams for 1,000 long-term participants

The Study of Health in Pomerania (SHIP) has begun a fresh round of examinations, continuing its decades-long research into population health. Running from March to October, this latest phase will assess up to 1,000 participants aged between 47 and 102. The project remains one of the world's largest long-term health studies, tracking trends in Western Pomerania since 1997.

SHIP first launched in 1997, collecting health data from thousands of residents in Western Pomerania. Over the years, its findings have supported countless research projects across Germany and beyond.

The newest wave follows a 2021 expansion that included nearly 4,400 people and over 1,000 pets, part of a 'One Health' approach linking human and animal well-being. This time, participants will receive thorough medical checks, including body measurements, ultrasound scans, dental exams, and detailed interviews.

Of the current group, 925 individuals have taken part in all five previous examination rounds. Another 150 have missed no more than one. Their long-term involvement helps researchers spot health changes over time.

This phase will add to SHIP's vast dataset, which has already informed national and international studies. The results will offer further insights into ageing, disease patterns, and public health in the region. Examinations are scheduled to run until October.