Cancer Prevention and Control

Program co-leaders

Darlene H. Brunzell, Ph.D.
Bernard Fuemmeler, Ph.D.

The Cancer Prevention and Control (CPC) program translates research findings into practice and policy to improve the prevention, detection, treatment, and control of cancer. The CPC program strives to enhance the quality of life for all individuals affected by cancer, including a large African-American population served within Massey’s catchment area. Massey received distinction as a Minority/Underserved NCI Community Oncology Research Program to advance research in this area of need. Additionally, CPC clinical trials and much of the program’s basic science research addresses disparities in this population.

In line with NCI's priority to foster multidisciplinary research, Massey has facilitated cross-cutting collaborations by generating an award program dedicated to CPC inter-programmatic pilot projects, several of which have led to large externally funded grant projects. CPC also sponsors education and training through monthly seminars, inter-programmatic research retreats, competitive CPC pilot grants, and support for student and trainee fellowships.

The CPC program is a dynamic and growing program within Massey Cancer Center, which addresses the unique needs of the MCC catchment area and the nation. The program, with its vibrant research agenda, engaged multidisciplinary membership, and ongoing support from Massey, will continue to build upon the impact of its high-quality basic science, clinical, policy, and outcomes research.

Scientific aims

• Generate high-impact research discoveries that identify drivers of cancer incidence and mortality. These discoveries inform public health policy and build robust research resources and infrastructure aligned with cancer control and population science research.
• Address the unique needs of the MCC catchment area and beyond by engaging in multidisciplinary membership to build upon high-quality basic science, clinical, policy and outcomes research. This research should reduce the burden and improve the outcome of cancer in the catchment area and beyond. Included in this aim is to expand our focus on cancer health disparities to better provide screening to at-risk populations and to characterize the biological and psychosocial drivers of these disparities and develop interventions to address them.
• Address tobacco and obesity cancer risk factors and develop interventions, especially among cancer patients.