Cancer Prevention and Control Research Program

University Of Rochester, Rochester NY

Investigators

Abstract

CANCER PREVENTION AND CONTROL RESEARCH PROGRAM: PROJECT SUMMARY/ABSTRACT The goal of the Cancer Prevention and Control (CPC) Program at Wilmot Cancer Institute is to conduct research that will decrease cancer burden and reduce cancer- and treatment-related morbidity and mortality in the Wilmot catchment area. Led by Karen Mustian, PhD, MPH, and Supriya Mohile, MD, MS, 32 clinical and translational scientists from 13 departments within two schools conduct population-based, transdisciplinary, practice-changing research across the cancer control continuum from primary prevention through survivorship. Guided by the Wilmot strategic plan and high-priority catchment area needs, the CPC Program has three specific aims. Aim 1: identify novel, effective interventions to reduce cancer risk for individuals with high probability for a cancer diagnosis; Aim 2: develop innovative, effective supportive care therapies for patients, survivors, and caregivers to mitigate the toxicities and side effects caused by cancer and its treatments; and Aim 3: develop cutting-edge, effective system-level supportive care interventions for oncology practices and health care systems to improve cancer supportive care delivery and outcomes. Cross-cutting themes synergize program aims and include: behavior change; aging; and guideline/policy development. The CPC Program holds $10.4 million in annual direct, peer-reviewed funding, with 82% ($8.5 Million) from NCI. CPC also has 11 NCI-funded team science (e.g., MPI or P01-level) grants. Since 2019, CPC members authored 298 selected cancer-relevant publications, of which 138 (46%) are intra-programmatic, 48 (16%) are inter-programmatic, and 267 (90%) are multi-institutional. The significant scientific impact of these publications is reflected by 53 (18%) appearing in high-impact journals (impact factor >10). From 2019 through 2023, CPC researchers accrued 5,536 participants to interventional trials in the Wilmot catchment area. Key achievements include: 1) acquiring seven new team science grants (e.g., Cancer Grand Challenge Grant); 2) implementation of novel interventions to promote lung cancer, cervical cancer, and human papillomavirus screening, tobacco cessation, and weight management among priority populations via community and primary care partnerships. Paradigm-shifting CPC discoveries showing text and graphic vaping messages lower tobacco use; yoga and exercise are effective for treating cancer-related fatigue among survivors; and geriatric assessment is effective in reducing treatment toxicity in older adults, are transforming oncology guidelines and policy (e.g., 2023 ASCO Geriatric Oncology Guidelines). Future plans strategically target catchment area needs by: 1) expanding practice-changing intra- and inter-programmatic team science with the Genetics, Epigenetics and Metabolism, and Cancer Microenvironment Programs with emphases on aging, exercise, and supportive care; 2) increasing research with underserved populations by continuing to work with the Wilmot Community Outreach and Engagement Office; and 3) strategically targeting new faculty recruitment and collaborations in lifestyle interventions for primary prevention and implementation science.