Frequently Asked Questions

  • Yes. All members of our research team have experience conducting MRI scans with young children. During an MRI scan a child needs to lie still as best they can for a period of time. The research-dedicated scanner at each of our sites are  equipped with a monitor, to allow children to watch movies or TV shows during scans. In addition, parents are allowed to be in the scanner room during scans in order to provide emotional support and comfort.

  • Yes. Unlike x-rays or CT scans, MRI does not involve ionizing radiation. MRI uses a magnetic field and radio waves to produce images of internal bodily structures, like the brain. There are no known risks associated with exposure to this magnetic field. During an MRI scan, a person is placed within a magnet bore, which generates a magnetic field, and radio waves are emitted and received by radio frequency coils. These signals produce digital images.

  • No. These images are only intended for research purposes. The members of the research team who assess and process these images have not been trained to look for diseases or abnormalities. However, in the unlikely event that something unusual was detected, the images would be passed on to a qualified physician, who would follow up with the family if necessary.

  • No. Participation in this study is voluntary and you may withdraw your child from the study at any time without jeopardizing their health care or involvement in the study. If you decide to withdraw from the study, please notify us. 

  • Yes. Any information about your child obtained from or for this research study will be kept as confidential as possible. All records pertaining to your child's involvement in this research study will be stored in a locked file-cabinet and data will be kept in a secure computer database. Additionally, you child's name will not be on these records, as a study identification number will be used instead.

  • C-PIP involves three (3) sites across Canada:

    • Calgary

    • Toronto

    • Montreal

    Participants will visit the site that is closest and most convenient for them.