Self-collection of hair samples during the COVID-19 pandemic

Dyadic Hair Cortisol Self-Collection Procedure

“…However, detailed instructions, availability to answer questions, and the option to collect during a virtual meeting can mitigate this risk. Potential reasons for an inability to provide a hair sample include hair constraints, such as thin hair, braids, hair extensions (e.g., weaves or wigs), baldness, or alopecia (Toly et al, 2022).…”

“…Dyadic self-collection of hair cortisol from people living with AD and their caregivers is novel and fills a gap in scientific literature. A collection method that can be implemented outside of 4 pieces of painter's tape (for securing hair in packaging and ease of hair removal by laboratory personnel) Mailing supplies 2 hair sample mailing envelopes labeled "Exempt Human Specimen" 1 labeled "Participant" with unique identification number 1 labeled "Caregiver" with unique identification number 1 printed copy of instructions for dyadic hair sample self-collection 2 printed copies of hair cutting instructions based on hair length Address labels (optional) 1 large flat-rate envelope (fits all supplies for shipping) 1 medium flat-rate envelope (for return shipping of samples to laboratory) Postage for large flat-rate envelope Postage for medium flat-rate envelope for sample return envelope a laboratory or clinical setting and without the need for a skilled professional is relevant with transitions to remote research as a result of distancing measures beginning in 2020 in response to the SARS-CoV-2 outbreak (Toly et al, 2022). At-home, self-collection decreases the risk of exposure and alleviates the need for personal protective equipment that may be in low supply during times of high demand.…”

“…Dyadic self-collection of hair cortisol from people living with AD and their caregivers is novel and fills a gap in scientific literature. A collection method that can be implemented outside of a laboratory or clinical setting and without the need for a skilled professional is relevant with transitions to remote research as a result of distancing measures beginning in 2020 in response to the SARS-CoV-2 outbreak (Toly et al, 2022). At-home, self-collection decreases the risk of exposure and alleviates the need for personal protective equipment that may be in low supply during times of high demand.…”

“…Additional benefits of hair cortisol samples include the noninvasive nature, the simple method of collection using common household supplies, and the lack of storage requirements. In an at-home collection study, participants reported that the self-collection of hair was easier than expected (Toly et al, 2022). Hair samples are also a lower burden to many patients, whereas a blood test can cause patient discomfort, fear, and pain; a salivary test may be difficult because of dry mouth; and a urine test can be difficult to complete for individuals living with cognitive impairment, such as AD.…”

“…Remote options can reduce participant burden, especially in vulnerable populations, such as those living with Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Collection of hair cortisol by the research participants in an at-home environment (Toly et al, 2022) minimizes difficulties, such as travel and exposure to viruses. If collected properly, hair cortisol self-collection is equivalent to professionally collected hair and can be used reliably as a method for obtaining cortisol levels outside of a laboratory setting (Enge et al, 2020; Ouellet-Morin et al, 2016).…”