A -- The InChianti Follow-up Study

The National Institute on Aging, part of the National Institutes of Health, is seeking proposals to conduct follow-up examinations of the InChianti Study cohort, an epidemiologic study focused on aging and mobility decline in the Chianti region of Tuscany, Italy. The study began with a baseline assessment funded by the Italian Ministry of Health and had a first follow-up three years post-baseline funded by the National Institute on Aging in collaboration with the National Research Institute in Ancona, Italy. The current contract involves conducting follow-up assessments at six and nine years after the baseline, repeating relevant interview and examination components from previous assessments on all surviving cohort members. This contract is anticipated to be a six-year, cost-reimbursement type agreement, with an award expected around October 1, 2004. The solicitation is scheduled for release on or about February 27, 2004, closing approximately two months later. Proposals are open to all responsible sources and will be reviewed by the Government. Interested parties are expected to monitor the listed NIH websites for solicitation issuance and any amendments. The contracting officer for this opportunity is Silver C Jones, reachable via email or phone as indicated in the notice. The contract is related to the NAICS code 541710 for research and development services.