Frequently Asked Questions
How have procedures changed due to COVID-19?
In response to COVID-19, we complete most of our testing through remote video visits. Please help us stay productive while making your contribution to scientific progress from the comfort of your own home! Complete our questionnaire to check your son's eligibility and contact us to see about scheduling a remote testing visit.
Once remote testing is complete, all families are invited to Stanford's campus for an abbreviated in-person testing session to complete the blood draw, physical exam, a few cognitive assessments, and the MRI scan.
How long will our visit take?
- All eligible families (both local and traveling families) are invited to complete four to five 2 hour video testing sessions to complete behavioral questionnaires and cognitive assessments over Zoom. After this remote testing is complete, all families are invited to complete an abbreviated in-person visit (3-4 hours) for the pubertal measurements, blood test, and MRI scan.
How long will this study continue?
Study participants are asked to complete up to 4 annual study visits as this is a longitudinal research study. Most families will complete 2-3 annual visits.
Are MRIs safe and do they use any harmful forms of radiation?
MRIs are safe and no health risks have been associated with the magnetic fields or radio frequency waves used in this imaging technology. Your child will not be exposed to any harmful forms of radiation or X-rays during the imaging process. As long as your child has no metal inside or outside his body, it is completely safe for him to go inside an MRI machine. To check your eligibility please complete this questionnaire and our team will contact you soon.
Will you use any contrast during the MRI scan?
No, we do not use any type of contrast during our MRI scan.
Will you use any sedatives or medication on my child during the MRI scan?
No. To help your child stay still while in the scanner we ask that your child plays the statue game at home and listens to sounds made by MRI machines to get used to the experience. During your visits we will help you child prepare for the scan by practicing in our mock scanner. Finally, to help keep your child entertained during their scan, they will be able to watch movies or videos on Netflix or Youtube.
Are transportation and food costs reimbursed?
We are able to cover costs for the participating child and one caregiver or parent.
Ground transportation and food costs are reiumbursed within 2-4 weeks after each yearly visit is completed.
Flights and hotels for traveling families can be booked by our research staff directly on our lab credit card. Alternatively, if families prefer to book their own travel, these costs can be reiumbursed 2-4 weeks after visit completion.
Can we participate if we live outside of the United States?
Due to the global pandemic and continued international travel restrictions, we can only enroll new participants who live in the continental United States.
Will our family be compensated for participating in the study?
Families will receive an up to $150 for their participation in all annual testing (plus prizes and a picture of your child's brain)
How do I know if my family is eligible to participate in the study?
To check your child's eligibility please go to is.gd/BGAPstudy or click below to complete a brief screening questionnaire. Shortly after completing that form, a member of our team will contact you to discuss the study and your eligibility.
Who should I contact with questions?
You can call us at (650) 308-9206 or email the team at BGAPstudy@stanford.edu
