Research
There are many factors influencing cancer development, morbidity and mortality other than the disease itself. Researchers at the CRMH are examining how differences in culture, behavior and lifestyle; access to health care; use of early detection and screening programs; and genetics contribute to the increased risk of cancer for certain groups. The CRMH is exploring these factors through innovative research that combines laboratory, clinical and behavioral methods.
The CRMH is only one of a few centers in the nation to take a holistic approach toward understanding cancer and other health-related issues facing minorities and the medically underserved. The CRMH staff knows that the cancer problem among individuals with different ethnic, social and economic backgrounds cannot be dealt with as a single issue – and that research addressing minority health must be broad, inclusive and culturally sensitive.
Several disease sites that disproportionately affect ethnic minorities are the initial targets for study. Research planning groups, consisting of M. D. Anderson physicians and scientists, as well as an External Scientific Advisory Board and Community Advisory Board, are essential to the development of specific research programs and to the CRMH mission of eliminating disparities in cancer.
The CRMH team is focusing its research efforts on:
- Understanding ethnic differences in cancer incidence, mortality and response to treatment in order to better understand the impact of cancer on different populations
- Examining the relationship between diet and cancer, and how differences in metabolism among certain ethnic groups may increase their chances of developing diseases associated with high-fat diets such as breast and prostate cancer. The African-American Nutrition for Life Project (A NU-LIFE) – a dietary intervention study examining the role of diet and breast cancer among African-American women – is a meaningful example. This study is now closed to new participants. Data is now being analyzed for publication.
- Assessing environmental exposures (EXPORT) in the home, community and workplace that may increase some individuals’ risks of getting cancer more than others and which pose a threat to overall health, as well as examining the effects of chemical exposure to the unborn child. Project EXPORT - A Center of Excellence has been renewed for another five years.
- Determining whether cultural influences such as attitudes and behaviors with respect to cancer, health care and clinical trial participation contribute to poorer health outcomes (AANCART)
- Collecting, monitoring and analyzing risk, incidence, mortality and other epidemiological data for specific cancers and ethnic groups
- Recruiting and retaining individuals for clinical trials to improve access to cancer prevention and cancer care programs among targeted populations.
In the coming years, these research initiatives of the CRMH will yield important information that can be used to develop new therapies and better screening guidelines to meet the specific needs of all populations – and, as a result, reduce the overall incidence, mortality and morbidity of cancer.