Mapping global oncology priorities: A survey of the directors of the NCI-designated cancer centers.

Abstract

11008 Background: By 2040, an estimated 69% of all cancer deaths globally will occur in LMICs. Recognizing this, ASCO formed the Academic Global Oncology Task Force in 2017 to help formalize the global oncology (GO) field. Their recommendations included: better engagement with the National Cancer Institute (NCI) Center for Global Health (CGH), increased funding, and development of forums to highlight global cancer research and control activities. To further clarify how GO programs are defined and to better understand the perspectives and needs of cancer research leaders, CGH conducted a survey of the 71 Directors at the NCI-Designated Cancer Centers (NDCC). Methods: A 19-question survey was designed using Microsoft Forms and sent to the NDCC Directors via email. Responses were collected from July to September 2021. Two coders reviewed the qualitative responses to categorize the data into thematic areas. Analyses were conducted in Microsoft Excel. Results: Seventy of 71 (99%) NDCC Directors responded to the survey. 41 NDCCs (59%) reported dedicated GO programs or plans to create such a program within 5 years. Additionally, 16 Directors reported GO activities without a dedicated program, while 13 reported no GO activities. The Directors described GO as having high/extremely high (39%) or moderate (50%) importance relative to other priorities, across all types of NDCCs (basic, clinical, or comprehensive). Eight NDCCs (11%) described GO as a low priority or non-priority. 31 NDCCs (44%) reported dedicated funding for GO activities. Directors estimated interest in GO to be higher among junior faculty and trainees than senior and mid-career faculty. Future goals for established or developing GO programs included: recruitment of leadership, formalizing a strategic vision, establishing partnerships, and increasing the number of activities with international collaborations. Barriers noted were limited funding, limited capacity and expertise, and prioritizing the needs in domestic NDCC catchment areas. Conclusions: Despite variation across NDCCs, GO interest is strong as expressed by Center Directors. Strategic planning, increased funding, and improved collaboration within and between NDCCs were reported as necessary to strengthen GO at NDCCs. Continued leadership from ASCO, the NCI, and other international organizations can help facilitate dialogue and increase the prioritization of GO activities at NDCCs.