I’d like to donate blood to support medical research. How can I do that?

To donate a sample, you can contact us at 217999437 or 965152588, or via email at biobank@gimm.pt. Our team will provide all the necessary information and schedule the sample collection. Alternatively, during a medical consultation, you can inform your doctor of your intention to donate a biological sample to the GIMM Biobank.

Do I need to fast before donating a sample?

No, you can eat normally before donating a blood sample unless instructed otherwise by your doctor.

I was told I couldn’t donate blood. Can I still donate a sample for research?

Yes. The criteria for blood donation differ from those for research. For example, someone who has had a serious illness in the past may not be eligible to donate blood but can donate a sample for research. If in doubt, please contact us (217999437 or 965152588) or speak with the doctor at the time of donation.

I’m worried about feeling unwell after donating a blood sample. Is this likely?

The most common sample collected at the GIMM Biobank is blood, and the procedure is identical to having blood drawn for testing. You might experience slight pain and/or skin discoloration or bruising at the site where the needle was inserted. The risk of infection during these procedures is very low.

What legislation regulates the collection of biological samples and clinical data for biobanks in Portugal?

In Portugal, biobanks are regulated by Law No. 12/2005, Decree-Law 131/2014 and the Oviedo Convention on Human Rights and Biomedicine, established since 01-03-2001, which states that biological samples can only be collected with approval from an ethics committee, and clinical data collection is governed by the National Data Protection Commission. Sample collection and storage by the GIMM Biobank are authorized by the Ethics Committee of the Lisbon North Hospital Center – Santa Maria Hospital, and the collection of clinical data is regulated by the National Data Protection Commission.

I’m healthy. Why do you need my samples?

Samples from healthy donors are just as important as those from donors with illnesses. In research, it’s often necessary to first understand the normal situation before studying a disease.

I’m sick. Does participating in the GIMM Biobank affect how my doctor treats me?

No. Donating to the GIMM Biobank does not interfere with clinical practice in any way.

There are already many samples at the GIMM Biobank. Why do you need more?

The GIMM Biobank aims to recruit samples from all potential donors, regardless of geographic location, age, or health status. The number of samples required depends on the research question scientists aim to answer, as biomedical research often relies on analyzing large numbers of samples and, in most cases, comparing them with a control group (individuals without disease). These comparisons help identify common features, such as biomarkers typical of a disease. The size of scientific studies in medicine varies greatly, sometimes involving thousands of participants, depending on the type of study and its objectives. With your help, the GIMM Biobank can become an invaluable resource!

How might I benefit from research conducted using samples from the GIMM Biobank?

Health research can lead to the discovery of new drugs or the creation of diagnostic tests that help detect certain diseases earlier, benefiting the entire community. Donors might directly benefit from these medical advances in the future. Donors can also request to be informed if any disease marker is detected in their samples. In such cases, the information will be conveyed to their attending physician.

I’m under 18. Can I donate?

Minors can donate samples if accompanied by their parents or legal guardians. In such cases, informed consent must be signed by the donor (if aged 12 or older) and their parents/legal guardians.

How long are my samples stored?

The storage duration varies depending on the sample type. On average, when stored under optimal conditions, samples maintain good quality for 10 years.

I’d like to support the biobank but prefer not to donate a sample. You can help the GIMM Biobank by: Following and supporting the GIMM Biobank on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn. Spreading the word by telling your family and friends. Contacting us about volunteer opportunities. Contributing with a donation.

Will my sample be used for only one study?

In most cases, the amount of sample required for a study is minimal. The GIMM Biobank takes special care when sharing samples that are limited in quantity. As such, a sample may potentially be used in multiple studies.

What diseases will the GIMM Biobank help scientists study?

The GIMM Biobank’s mission is to support scientific research and contribute to health and well-being for all, without prioritizing specific diseases. The biobank aims to support research into any disease, depending on patient donations, the collaboration of healthcare professionals facilitating collections, and the studies proposed to the biobank.

How can I be sure my donated samples won’t be used for unethical purposes or sold?

The sale or commercialization of biological samples is prohibited by law. To ensure ethical compliance, the GIMM Biobank is approved by the Ethics Committee of the Lisbon North Hospital Center – Santa Maria Hospital. Furthermore, studies requesting samples from the GIMM Biobank must demonstrate that the project has been reviewed and approved by an ethics committee. The GIMM Biobank also has a scientific committee to ensure the proper use of each sample.

Will researchers know I donated a sample?

No. When a sample is donated to the GIMM Biobank, it is assigned a numeric code, and the donor’s identity is hidden and inaccessible. From that point on, the samples and collected clinical data are processed anonymously.

If I donated voluntarily, why does the biobank charge fees for the scientists?

Donated samples are carefully prepared and frozen to ensure they remain in the best possible condition for as long as possible. This preparation involves handling costs, such as tubes, pipettes, and other consumables. The fees charged by the GIMM Biobank for sample use are solely intended to cover part of the costs associated with sample collection and maintenance.

Can I withdraw from participating in the GIMM Biobank?

Yes. Participation is entirely voluntary, and you can withdraw at any time without providing justification. Upon withdrawal, your samples and clinical data will be destroyed, ending your participation in the GIMM Biobank. To withdraw, simply contact us at 217999437 or 965152588 or via email at biobank@gimm.pt (weekdays from 9 am to 6 pm; outside these hours, contact us via email or mobile).

What are the operating hours?

Sample collection at the GIMM Biobank is by appointment via phone (217999437 or 965152588) or email (biobank@gimm.pt).

What facilities does the GIMM Biobank have?

The GIMM Biobank includes an office space for administrative matters, a sample collection room with a reception area and direct outdoor access, a laboratory equipped for sample processing, and a climate-controlled area with freezer units for sample storage.