History of this Study

From 1995 through 1996, we mailed 3.5 million questionnaires to current members of the AARP (formally the American Association of Retired Persons), aged 50-71 years, and who resided in one of six states (California, Florida, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, North Carolina, and Louisiana) or in two metropolitan areas (Atlanta, Georgia and Detroit, Michigan). The questionnaire included a dietary section as well as some lifestyle questions. Over 500,000 people returned the questionnaire, making this the largest study of diet and health ever conducted! In 1996-1997 we mailed our participants a Risk-Factor Questionnaire which asked additional questions about lifestyle and behavior. In 2004-2006 we’ve mailed our follow-up questionnaire.

AARP is a nonprofit, nonpartisan membership organization for people age 50 and over. AARP is dedicated to enhancing quality of life for all as we age. We lead positive social change and deliver value to members through information, advocacy and service. AARP also provides a wide range of unique benefits, special products, and services for our members. Visit AARP at http://www.aarp.org