UHCC Body Composition Lab
Samsung Study (2026)
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Research Studies on Body Composition and Health
The Shepherd Research Lab invites participants to join research studies focused on body composition, health-measurement technologies, and related health outcomes. Studies that are currently enrolling appear first below; closed studies are kept on the page for reference.
For general inquiries, call 808-440-5234 or email bodycompstudies@cc.hawaii.edu. Each study below also has its own contact details.
Enrolling Studies
Study 1: Samsung BIA Device Accuracy
Evaluates whether extracellular water and total body water measured by Samsung Bioimpedance Analysis (BIA) devices are accurate compared to standard tests including the dilution method and dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA).
- Includes: BIA, DXA, 3D optical scan, Bod Pod, biological samples (urine, saliva, blood), and a diet questionnaire.
- Eligibility: Healthy adults; no removable metal, jewelry, or incompatible medical devices, and no chronic disease.
- Recruitment: Uses age and BMI categories — see the BMI calculator to estimate yours.
- Commitment: Single 4-hour appointment.
- More info: See the study contact for more information.
Study 2: TANITA BIA Device Accuracy
Evaluates the accuracy of TANITA Bioimpedance Analysis (BIA) devices for measuring extracellular and total body water — compared against standard methods like dilution analysis and dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA).
- Includes: BIA, DXA, urine/saliva/blood samples, 3D optical scan, Bod Pod, and a diet questionnaire.
- Eligibility: Healthy adults; no non-removable metal, jewelry, or medical devices, and no chronic disease.
- Commitment: One ~4-hour visit, Mondays–Fridays at 7:30 AM check-in.
- More info: See the study contact for more information.
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Study 3: Cardiorespiratory Fitness and Body Composition
Evaluates cardiorespiratory fitness, body composition, and muscle strength in healthy adults using several assessment tools, including Dual-Energy X-ray Absorptiometry (DXA), treadmill-based aerobic fitness testing, 3D optical scanning, air displacement plethysmography, and strength measurements. Additionally, the study assesses the repeatability and variability of these laboratory methods. Results will help investigators better understand how consistent these measurements are when performed within the lab and support the use of these technologies in future research.
- Eligibility: Healthy adults; no non-removable metal, jewelry, or medical devices, and no chronic disease.
- Commitment: Between 30 minutes and 2 hours.
- More info: See the study contact for more information.
Closed Studies
Pilot Study: Handheld Ultrasound Device for Breast Cancer Detection
A pilot study evaluating a handheld portable ultrasound device (Clarius HD3 L15) integrated with AI for breast-cancer detection — comparing its performance to traditional mammography. The research aims to enhance screening accessibility in remote and underserved Pacific communities.
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- "Makawalu" means "eight eyes" in Hawaiian — symbolizing examination from multiple perspectives.
- Eligibility: Women 18+ with a mammogram scheduled within 6 months. Not currently pregnant or breastfeeding. No breast augmentation or implants.
- Commitment: One-time, 1-hour Saturday visit at the UH Cancer Center.
- More info: See the study contact for more information.
Past Study: Toddlers and Infants
Helped families learn about their children's health while researchers developed technologies to measure body shape and understand its relationship to physical strength and cardiovascular health.
- Eligibility: Toddlers and infants, ages 0–5 years.
- Commitment:
- More info: See the study contact for more information.
Contact Us
Use the form below to learn more about a specific study (clicking Learn More on any card above pre-fills your message), tell us what topics you’re interested in, or ask to be notified when new studies open. We’ll route your message to the right study coordinator.
Studies inquiries
808-440-5234
Lab
Body Composition Lab
701 Ilalo Street
Honolulu, HI 96813
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John Shepherd, PhD — University of Hawaiʻi Cancer Center. Research in quantitative imaging, breast cancer risk, body composition, and AI for health.
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