An integrative model of influences on cancer prevention, detection, and treatment

Abstract

Our scientific and clinical understanding of cancer is changing. Advances in technology coupled with new discoveries in cancer biology are forcing a broadened perspective and with that, recognition of a more inclusive model of cancer’s influencing factors. We present a multidimensional dynamic model of the interactions of genomic, epigenomic, and environmental factors that can provide research pathways for future studies. These are predicted to stimulate the development of comprehensive cancer algorithms and the evolution of universal precision medicine. The current inadequacy of human genomic databases on African-descended human groups and their cancer tumor genomics are discussed and the efforts at Howard University to ameliorate these deficiencies through the development of comprehensive genomic databases. The importance of systematically addressing environmental catalysts for cancer including bioactive dietary factors, the body’s commensal microbiota, and the role of immunotherapy in cancer control are discussed. The need for population-and cancer-specific biomarkers to be identified and algorithms developed is highlighted and the role for large-scale studies of African-descended groups emphasized.