UNK hosting hands-on exhibit featuring health research, medical advancements

KEARNEY – The University of Nebraska at Kearney will serve as the next stop for the National Institutes of Health’s All of Us Journey, a traveling exhibit designed to accelerate health research and medical advancements.

From 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Aug. 27-30, the All of Us Journey will be stationed at the north end of Lot 13 on the UNK campus, west of the Memorial Student Affairs Building at 2510 11th Ave.

This hands-on, interactive exhibit features activities, videos, games, quizzes and more. It gives attendees the chance to join the All of Us Research Program, where they can also provide physical measurements and blood and urine samples.

For those who contribute bio samples, such as blood or saliva, the program offers the option to learn about their genetic ancestry, their susceptibility to certain hereditary diseases and how their body may respond to various medications.

The mobile exhibit offers an array of features, including:

  • An augmented reality experience
  • Private rooms for physical measurements and bio sample collection
  • An interactive station where participants can share their motivations for joining the program

By gathering health and lifestyle information from a diverse group of 1 million volunteers, the program aims to build a comprehensive research resource. This resource will inform thousands of studies on a wide variety of health conditions, potentially leading to breakthroughs that could benefit future generations.

Unlike other research studies that may focus on a specific disease or demographic, All of Us is open to all individuals, regardless of their health status or background. The program’s inclusive approach is designed to uncover insights that could improve health outcomes across all communities.

The All of Us Journey tour is a key component of the program’s outreach efforts, engaging communities across the country and raising awareness through educational activities and experiences.

To learn more about the All of Us Research Program and get involved visit JoinAllofUs.org/drive.