Explore UAB

Map OnlyThank you for your interest in our study - we would love to have you on board!

How can I take part?

Reserve your spot in being one of the 426 cancer survivors within the state to participate in this trial!

Please first see our list of eligibility criteria (just below) to see if the study is a good fit for you. If so, email us at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or call us toll-free at 1-844-GROW-GR8 (1-844-476-9478).

Is the study right for me?

Participants must be 65 years of age or older, be able speak and write in English, and live in one of the counties in green on the map to the right.

Participants must have completed their primary cancer treatment for one of the following cancers.

Bladder, breast, colon/rectum, gastric cardia, gynecologic cancers,Hodgkin & Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma, kidney/renal/pelvis, larynx cancer, leukemia, melanoma, multiple myeloma, oral cavity, pharynx, prostate, soft tissue sarcoma, squamous and basal cell skin cancer, thyroid cancer, and testis.

Additionally, participants should have a sunny space for either a 4" x 8" raised bed or four container gardens, and have access to running water. If you eat less than 2 ½ cups of fruits and vegetables a day and exercise less than 150 minutes a week, this study could be the perfect fit for you!

If I agree to participate, what is involved?

This study is done completely at your home - there is no need to travel. You will receive all the supplies needed to grow three successful gardens over a one-year period. An Alabama Master Gardener will visit your home and contact you once a month for 11 months.

The UAB study team will make three home visits to determine the effects of gardening on your health. One visit will occur at the start, then one year later, and the last one two years later. After each of these visits you will receive $20.

During each home visit, we will do the following:

  • Measure your weight and waist size.
  • Measure your grip strength and do other function tests.
  • Draw two tablespoons of blood.
  • Collect questionnaire data.

Your participation in this study will be completely voluntary. You will be free with withdraw at any time without penalty.