Comparison of methods for collection of DNA samples by mail in the Black Women's Health Study.
OBJECTIVE
The authors compared approaches to participants and methods of collecting buccal cell samples by mail in the Black Women's Health Study, a follow-up study of geographically dispersed African-American women. Outcomes of interest were within group participation rates, yield of DNA, and PCR success.


METHODS
Six hundred fifty six participants were randomized to four groups: Groups 1 and 2 used the cheek swab method and Groups 3 and 4 used the mouthwash swish method. Groups 1 and 3 were mailed collection kits together with consent forms, whereas Groups 2 and 4 were mailed a kit only after returning a signed consent.


RESULTS
Participation rates were similar regardless of the method used for sample collection or mailing of the kits: samples were returned by 40% of Group 1, 37% of Group 2, 36% of Group 3, and 35% of Group 4. The median DNA yield was 3693 ng/sample for the swab method and 10,077 ng/sample for the mouthwash swish method (p<0.001). PCR analyses were successful in 98% of mouthwash samples and 94% of swab samples.


CONCLUSIONS
Because of its higher yield of DNA, the mouthwash swish method is preferable for collection of buccal cell samples by mail.
Cozier
Yvette C
YC
Slone Epidemiology Center, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA 02215, USA. ycozier@slone.bu.edu
Palmer
Julie R
JR
Rosenberg
Lynn
L
D000328:Adult; D001741:Black or African American / Q000235:genetics* / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D001900:Boston; D004247:DNA / Q000032:analysis*; D003625:Data Collection / Q000379:methods; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008875:Middle Aged; D009061:Mouth Mucosa / Q000166:cytology*; D009067:Mouthwashes; D009369:Neoplasms; D016133:Polymerase Chain Reaction; D011177:Postal Service; D013048:Specimen Handling / Q000379:methods*; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D016387:Women's Health
D009067:Mouthwashes; D004247:DNA