Researchers

SIMPLER includes large population-based prospective cohorts designed to investigate how lifestyle and genetic factors influence health outcomes, including morbidity and mortality, in middle-aged and older adults. The cohorts were established more than 30 years ago for women and over 20 years ago for men, and participants have been followed with repeated assessments of exposures over time.

The Swedish Mammography Cohort (SMC) and the Cohort of Swedish Men (COSM) are based on food-frequency questionnaires that also include questions on health and lifestyle. Both cohorts include clinical subcohorts with detailed health examinations, such as body composition, physical performance, and cognitive function. Biological samples are collected, including blood, urine, stool, and adipose tissue. Information on health outcomes is further obtained through linkage to national, regional, and local registers.

Data and biological samples are available to researchers through an application process. The breadth and long-term follow-up of the data make it possible to study relationships between diet, lifestyle, and disease, and to explore underlying mechanisms of health outcomes.