Cancer Research Capacity Research Articles

Factors influencing the research impact in cancer research: a collaboration and knowledge network analysis

BackgroundCancer is a major public health challenge globally. However, little is known about the evolution patterns of cancer research communities and the influencing factors of their research capacity and impact, which is affected not only by the social networks established through research collaboration but also by the knowledge networks in which the research projects are embedded.MethodsThe focus of this study was narrowed to a specific topic – 'synthetic lethality’ – in cancer research. This field has seen vibrant growth and multidisciplinary collaboration in the past decade. Multi-level collaboration and knowledge networks were established and analysed on the basis of bibliometric data from ‘synthetic lethality’-related cancer research papers. Negative binomial regression analysis was further applied to explore how node attributes within these networks, along with other potential factors, affected paper citations, which are widely accepted as proxies for assessing research capacity and impact.ResultsOur study revealed that the synthetic lethality-based cancer research field is characterized by a knowledge network with high integration, alongside a collaboration network exhibiting some clustering. We found significant correlations between certain factors and citation counts. Specifically, a leading status within the nation-level international collaboration network and industry involvement were both found to be significantly related to higher citations. In the individual-level collaboration networks, lead authors’ degree centrality has an inverted U-shaped relationship with citations, while their structural holes exhibit a positive and significant effect. Within the knowledge network, however, only measures of structural holes have a positive and significant effect on the number of citations.ConclusionsTo enhance cancer research capacity and impact, non-leading countries should take measures to enhance their international collaboration status. For early career researchers, increasing the number of collaborators seems to be more effective. University–industry cooperation should also be encouraged, enhancing the integration of human resources, technology, funding, research platforms and medical resources. Insights gained through this study also provide recommendations to researchers or administrators in designing future research directions from a knowledge network perspective. Focusing on unique issues especially interdisciplinary fields will improve output and influence their research work.

The African Research Group for Oncology: A decade fostering colorectal cancer research in Nigeria.

The African Research Group for Oncology (ARGO) was formed in 2013 to undertake methodologically rigorous cancer research in Nigeria, and to strengthen cancer research capacity in the country through training and mentorship of physicians, scientists, and other healthcare workers. Here, we describe how ARGO's work in colorectal cancer (CRC) has evolved over the past decade. This includes the consortium's scientific contributions to the understanding of CRC in Nigeria and globally and its research capacity-building program.

Adapting a Research and Community Capacity-Building Program to Address Rural Cancer Burden and Facilitate Partnership Development Between Rural Community Stakeholders and an Urban Comprehensive Cancer Center.

While rural-urban cancer disparities persist, the research building capacity between rural communities and high-quality cancer centers remains limited. Thus, we describe how a National Cancer Institute-designated cancer center partnered with rural community stakeholders to adapt a cancer prevention-focused research and community capacity-building workshop. The workshop's goal was to strengthen community-academic partnerships and facilitate the development of sustainable well-resourced rural cancer-focused research. Researchers from the Siteman Cancer Center partnered with community leaders from rural counties in southern Illinois. We adapted the workshop from an existing evidence-based program. We analyzed changes in knowledge and research capacity and relevance to their community work. From February to May 2019, community partners guided all elements of the workshop development. Workshop participants were mostly White race (93%), had a college degree or beyond (75%), reported living in a rural community (93%), and represented an academic, faith-based, or healthcare institution (78%). Participants' mean knowledge scores of the presented content increased significantly after each session, from 9.3 to 9.9 for session 1 (p = 0.05) and 6.8 to 9.7 (p < 0.001) for session two. Through the workshop, participant scores also increased in research capacity skills, confidence, and their understanding of conducting research in the community. The workshop, co-curated and led by rural community leaders and researchers from Siteman Cancer Center, successfully increased knowledge of and interest in building cancer research capacity. Lessons from our work can inform the implementation of similar programs that address rural cancer health through research and community capacity building between rural community partners and urban cancer centers.

Unveiling research training gaps in oncology: Evaluating a research capacity-building effort among Nigerian physicians.

Cancers are a disease of growing public health importance in Africa, but cancer research capacity in the region is underdeveloped. The quest to foster and promote locally conceptualized and conducted oncology research in Africa have informed the African Research Group for Oncology's (ARGO) research capacity-building efforts in Nigeria. To evaluate the effectiveness of oncology research capacity-building initiatives among Nigerian senior trainees and junior faculty physicians. Panel study design was employed to study Nigerian senior trainees and junior faculty physicians who participated in two research capacity-building symposia. Data were collected pre-and immediate post-symposia, and 3-month post-first symposium. Changes in knowledge were assessed using the Chi-square test and confidence levels using the Wilcoxon signed rank test. A P value of <0.05 was considered statistically significant. : In the first symposium, the participants' pass rate in the knowledge-based questions improved from 9.8% to 46.7% to 81.5% at the baseline, immediate post-symposium, and 3-month post-symposium, respectively (P < 0.001). Likewise, the participants' confidence level in carrying out certain research-related activities increased after the second symposium (P < 0.001). The study concludes that building capacity for oncology research in low- and middle-income countries is possible with focused symposia and educational programs.

Survival outcomes following colorectal cancer surgery in low- and middle-income countries: A systematic review.

3544 Background: Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a surgical disease that ranks among leading causes of global deaths, but little is known about survival outcomes following CRC surgery in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). In this study, we sought to review all published literature on long-term outcomes following CRC resections in LMICs. Methods: We completed a systematic review of original research articles presenting survival outcomes after CRC resection with curative intent in LMICs. Databases searched included PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, and Global Index Medicus. Country income groupings were determined by 2020 World Bank data. We excluded articles involving pediatric populations (&lt;18 years), non-primary colorectal cancers, benign disease, and endoscopic/transanal resection only. Articles published before 2005 or without English full text were also excluded. Abstracts and full texts were assessed for eligibility by two independent reviewers; conflicts were resolved by a third reviewer. Data from China dominated the published literature and were excluded from final analysis. Survival data were extracted for 5-year disease free survival (DFS) and overall survival (OS). Results: Our search returned 29,134 articles. After automated and manual deduplication, 18,849 abstracts were assessed for eligibility. Following abstract and full-text review, 583 articles met the inclusion criteria for the study. Table 1 shows the most-represented countries and their associated income levels. In total, 1/27 low-income countries, 11/55 lower-middle income countries, and 16/55 upper-middle income countries were represented, which accounted for 0.3%, 12.9% and 86.8% of all included articles, respectively. The majority of articles were from China (379/583; 65%). Excluding data from China, 5-year disease DFS and OS varied significantly across included studies: Stage I = 64-100% DFS and 70-100% OS; Stage II = 75-94% DFS and 50-94% OS; Stage III = 34-87% DFS and 20-93% OS; Stages I-III combined = 53-86% DFS and 29-97% OS. Conclusions: There is a dearth of data on long-term outcomes following CRC operations in LMICs, especially among low-income countries. OS ranges markedly by country income group highlighting global disparities in cancer care. Our review emphasizes a dire need for cancer research capacity building in LMICs. [Table: see text]

Building Capacity for Cancer Research in the Era of COVID-19: Implementation and Results From an International Virtual Clinical Research Training Program in Zambia.

PURPOSEThe incidence of cancer in sub-Saharan Africa is increasing rapidly, yet cancer research in the region continues to lag. One contributing factor is limited exposure to clinical research among trainees. We describe implementation and results of a virtual clinical research training program for Zambian clinical oncology fellows developed jointly by the Cancer Diseases Hospital in Zambia and the MD Anderson Cancer Center to address this need.METHODSThe clinical research training program consisted of 14 weekly virtual lectures, development of research questions by Zambian clinical oncology fellows, assignment of faculty and peer mentors, longitudinal mentorship of research protocols, and anonymous precourse and postcourse surveys. The paired t-test was used to analyze the change in academic self-efficacy scores.RESULTSFourteen Zambian clinical oncology fellows participated. Senior fellows were paired with research mentors, leading to the development of eight research protocols. A total of 70 meetings and 126 hours of mentorship occurred with a median of seven meetings and 15 hours per pairing. The precourse and postcourse survey response rates were 86% and 79%, respectively. There were statistically significant increases in nine of 12 academic self-efficacy domains. The largest gains were in ability to independently perform research (P < .001) and research mentorship (P = .02) with an average increase of 1.5 points on a five-point scale in both domains.CONCLUSIONThe Cancer Diseases Hospital MD Anderson Cancer Center clinical research training program for Zambian clinical oncology fellows led to increases in multiple academic self-efficacy domains among participants, formation of longitudinal mentorship groups with both faculty and peer mentors, and development of Zambian-led research protocols, demonstrating the feasibility of implementing a virtual model. This may be especially relevant because of shifting international collaboration paradigms after the COVID-19 pandemic.

A bibliometric analysis of cancer research funders and collaborators in Kenya: 2007–2017

AimCancer research is essential to the development and implementation of effective control strategies and interventions. In Kenya, cancer is the third leading cause of death. Country specific research conducted by local and international investigators can inform a national plan to address local needs across the cancer care continuum. This analysis aims to provide information about the trends and types of cancer research collaborations, funding, and outputs from 2007 to 2017, to understand gaps and opportunities to strengthen Kenya-led cancer research capacity. MethodsThis analysis included 243 studies from a previously published phase 1 scoping review of oncology research conducted and published in Kenya from 2007 to 2017. The citation metadata was drawn from the Web of Science and PubMed and normalized in Microsoft Excel. Using Sci2, a series of bibliometric network analyses were conducted to identify funding patterns, collaborations between authors and institutions, and the types of cancer research conducted in Kenya. Gephi and Excel provided descriptive analyses and graphs of the network. The analyses are categorized into three themes: article production, collaboration, and research topics. ResultsThe bibliometric analysis found 5 US-based government agencies are funding cancer research in Kenya. Kenya-Kenya institutional collaborations were most common, and half of authors with the most co-authored publications were from Kenya. The publication trend showed a gradual increase from 2011 to 2014 with a subsequent drop through 2017. Conclusion and policy summary statementThis study identifies the funders and most often published Kenyan authors and Kenyan-based institutions publishing oncology research in Kenya. It also identifies future areas to focus research and the importance of continuing to build the writing and publishing capacity on oncology research by Kenyans.

Abstract 114: Funders and Collaborators of Cancer Research in Kenya, 2007-2017: A Bibliometric Analysis

Abstract Purpose: It is well established that cancer research is essential to the development and implementation of effective control strategies and interventions. In Kenya, cancer is the third leading cause of death. Country specific research conducted by both local and international investigators has the potential to shape a national plan which addresses local needs across the cancer care continuum. This analysis aims to provide information about the trends in research collaborations, funding and outputs from 2007-2017 types of research collaborations, institutional and individual research collaborations, the types of cancer in order to understand gaps and opportunities to strengthen Kenya-led cancer research capacity. Methods: This analysis included 243 studies from a previously published phase 1 scoping review of oncology research conducted in Kenya from 2007-2017. The citation metadata was drawn from Pubmed and manually standardized in Microsoft Excel. Using Sci2, a series of bibliometric network analyses were conducted to identify funding patterns, collaborations between authors and institutions, and the types of cancer research conducted in Kenya. Gephi and Excel provided descriptive analyses and graphs of the network. The analyses are categorized into three themes: article production, collaboration, and research topics. These findings were contextualized by study co-authors from Kenya and the US. Results: The bibliometric analysis described which agencies are funding cancer research in Kenya, which authors and institutions are collaborating with whom, and the cancer research areas most published on in this dataset. The publication trend from 2007-2017 was highlighted, emphasizing the historical development and enabling important recognition of researchers and funders in advancing medical oncology in Kenya. Conclusion: This study identifies future areas for collaborations between investigators in similar sub-fields and cancer research funding priorities for the nation. The findings provide a bigger picture that will guide policymakers on developing evidence-based decision-making, planning to strengthen future research capacity, and funding. Citation Format: Jasmin Vargas, Anyona Joseph, Martha Maina, Alfred Karagu, Mishka Cira, Ya-Ling Lu, Alicia Livinski. Funders and Collaborators of Cancer Research in Kenya, 2007-2017: A Bibliometric Analysis [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 9th Annual Symposium on Global Cancer Research; Global Cancer Research and Control: Looking Back and Charting a Path Forward; 2021 Mar 10-11. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2021;30(7 Suppl):Abstract nr 114.

Strengthening capacity for cancer research in conflict settings: key informant insights from the Middle East

BackgroundManagement of cancer in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region is accompanied by multiple challenges including heterogeneous access to early detection and treatment options and limited implementation of national cancer control plans. Furthermore, protracted armed conflicts across the region have had dramatic effects, including disruption of healthcare systems and the migration of healthcare professionals. Strengthening capacity for cancer research has been identified as a key intervention to correct data poverty, inform policy, manage limited resources and improve health outcomes.ObjectiveThe main objective of this study is to gain insights into the landscape, barriers and enablers of cancer training, research and care in the MENA region.MethodWe utilised purposive sampling to interview 16 key informants from a diverse academic, medical and research background originating from countries affected by conflicts, such as Lebanon, and from active conflict zones including Iraq and Syria.ResultsThe themes that emerged from the interviews focused on the barriers to cancer care, barriers to cancer research and training, strengths and importance of cancer research and training recommendations. The detrimental effect of conflict on cancer provision and research was a cross-cutting sub-theme disrupting cancer care provision and research due to unsafe environments, fragmented facilities, absence of drugs and migration of personnel. When asked about perceived optimal training format for cancer research, most informants recommended a post-graduate, face-to-face training focusing on cancer research methods and concepts.ConclusionThis study offers a unique insight into the barriers affecting cancer research and capacity-strengthening priorities from oncologists and researchers working in conflict-affected areas of the MENA region. These data will form the base for future capacity-strengthening initiatives addressing specific regional challenges.

Abstract PO-036: University of Guam/University of Hawai‘i Cancer Center Partnership: A seventeen-year investment in cancer health equity in Pacific Islanders

Abstract The University of Guam (UOG)/University of Hawai‘i Cancer Center (UHCC) Partnership aims to grow cancer research capacity at UOG, develop cancer health disparities research at UHCC focusing on Pacific Islanders (PI), raise awareness of cancer and cancer prevention in Guam (GU), Hawai‘i (HI) and the United States Associated Pacific Islands (USAPI), and increase the number of cancer and biomedical science researchers of PI ancestry in the US. An infrastructure comprised of 4 principal investigators, over 30 participating faculty, administrative staff, and external and internal reviewers, backed by institutional support and NCI sponsorship, has supported 17 years of research, training, and outreach designed to reduce cancer health disparities and advance health equity among PI in GU, HI, and the USAPI. Since 2009, the Partnership has funded 22 cancer research projects addressing cancer research priorities of global and regional relevance, including cervical cancer and Areca (betel) nut chewing - a traditional practice associated with oral pre/carcinoma, affecting 600 million users worldwide. Over 100 peer-reviewed manuscripts have been published, over 100 abstracts presented, and 21 grants secured. To address the underrepresentation of PI in biomedical sciences, the Partnership has supported and trained 35 graduate scholars; 23 master’s students at UOG and 12 doctoral students at UH. Two PhD graduates are now faculty members at UOG and engaged in cancer health disparities research. UOG’s Micronesian Studies Program offers a cancer health disparities track, developed by the Partnership and tailored for the Pacific region. In addition, UOG/UHCC faculty, junior investigators, and pre/postdocs receive mentorship, career development, and summer research fellowships; since 2015, 16 early career professionals have received support. Outreach projects have explored community-based participatory approaches to cancer prevention. Youth tobacco use prevention and cessation projects in Guam resulted in landmark tobacco control legislation, decreased tobacco use and increased tobacco taxes, which now sustain cancer programs and patient services in Guam including the Guam Cancer Registry. Current outreach efforts aim to increase colorectal cancer screening and HPV vaccination while building knowledge and awareness among physicians serving PI in GU and HI. Dedicated leadership and longstanding partner collaborations led to the first NCI Community Oncology Research Program site in 2019, providing therapeutic cancer clinical trials in Guam. In conclusion, research capacity at UOG has significantly increased, disparities research at UHCC has expanded, underrepresented PI students are pursuing careers in cancer research, and communities have been engaged in research, training and outreach to advance cancer health equity in HI, GU and the USAPI. Supported by NCI grants U54CA143727 and U54CA143728. Citation Format: Rachael T. Leon Guerrero, Margaret Hattori-Uchima, Hali R. Robinett, Carl-Wilhelm Vogel, Neal A. Palafox. University of Guam/University of Hawai‘i Cancer Center Partnership: A seventeen-year investment in cancer health equity in Pacific Islanders [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR Virtual Conference: Thirteenth AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2020 Oct 2-4. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2020;29(12 Suppl):Abstract nr PO-036.

Consolidation of Cancer Registry and Administrative Claims Data on Cancer Diagnosis and Treatment in the US Military Health System.

Linked cancer registry and medical claims data have increased the capacity for cancer research. However, few efforts have described methods to select information between data sources, which may affect data use. We developed a systematic process to evaluate and consolidate cancer diagnosis and treatment information between the linked Department of Defense Central Cancer Registry (CCR) and Military Health System Data Repository (MDR) administrative claims database, called Military Cancer Epidemiology Data System (MilCanEpi). MilCanEpi contains information on cancer diagnosis and treatment of patients receiving care from 1998 to 2014. We used an iterative process guided by knowledge of data features, current literature, and logical comparisons between the CCR and MDR data to evaluate and consolidate cancer diagnosis and treatment received (yes or no) and their dates. We applied the processes to breast cancer data as an example. Agreement between diagnosis and treatment dates in the two data sources was evaluated using Cohen's κ with 95% CIs. In MilCanEpi, we identified 15,965 patients with a breast cancer diagnosis and 15,145 patients who underwent breast cancer surgery; 97.9% and 84.1% of patients had records in both CCR and MDR for diagnosis and surgery, respectively. Exact agreement was 13.7% for diagnosis dates (Cohen's κ = 0.14; 95% CI, 0.13 to 0.14) and 68.9% for surgery dates (Cohen's κ = 0.69; 95% CI, 0.68 to 0.70) between the two data sources. After applying systematic processes, 98.1% of patients with a breast cancer diagnosis and 99.7% of patients with surgery had information selected for analytic data sets. The developed processes resulted in high consolidation rates of breast cancer data in MilCanEpi and may serve as a data selection template for other tumor sites and linked data sources.

Abstract D008: Resolving disparities in cancer patient outcomes in Trinidad and Tobago

Abstract The Caribbean Cancer Research Initiative (CCRI) began as a result of the alarming rates of various cancer types in the Caribbean and the lack of data and credible sources of information on the prevalence of cancer in the region. What we do know is that Trinidad and Tobago has one of the highest cancer mortality rates in the Caribbean. Some explanations for this disparity can be lack of treatment innovation, educational gaps regarding screening, shortcomings in health care administration and cultural biases. Preliminary data indicates that Trinidad has one of the highest breast cancer mortality rates in the Americas. The five year breast cancer survival rate is at approximately 30% compared to over 90% in the US. The median time to diagnostic resolution based on preliminary research is 65 days, approximately 3 times what is it in US and Canada. CCRI’s mission is to build the cancer research capacity in the Caribbean starting in Trinidad which will aid in preventing more cancers and improving patient outcomes in the Caribbean. One of the main programs of the organization is the patient navigation service which is designed to meet the needs of persons diagnosed with cancer and their family members. This service has highlighted some of the contributing factors to cancer disparities in Trinidad. Examples of these that will be featured on this poster are socioeconomic factors, cultural phenomenon, geographical factors and poor access to proper care. The Caribbean Cancer Research Initiative is committed to assist patients to overcome their barriers to gain better outcomes, which will aid in resolving disparities in cancer health in Trinidad. Citation Format: Nalisha Monroe. Resolving disparities in cancer patient outcomes in Trinidad and Tobago [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the Twelfth AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2019 Sep 20-23; San Francisco, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2020;29(6 Suppl_2):Abstract nr D008.

Abstract C125: University of Guam/University of Hawaii Cancer Center partnership: Fifteen years of progress in addressing cancer health disparities in Pacific Islanders

Abstract The University of Guam (UOG)/University of Hawaii Cancer Center (UHCC) Partnership aims to grow cancer research capacity at UOG; develop cancer health disparities research at UHCC focusing on Pacific Islanders (PI); raise awareness of cancer and cancer prevention in Guam (GU), Hawaii (HI) and the US Associated Pacific Islands (USAPI); and increase the number of cancer and biomedical science researchers of PI ancestry in the United States. An infrastructure comprising 5 principal investigators, over 30 participating faculty, administrative staff, and external and internal reviewers, backed by institutional support and NCI sponsorship, has supported 15 years of research, training, and outreach designed to reduce cancer health disparities and advance health equity among PI in GU, HI, and the USAPI. Since 2009, the Partnership has funded 18 cancer research projects addressing cancer research priorities of global and regional relevance, including cervical cancer and betel nut chewing—a traditional practice associated with oral pre/carcinoma, affecting 600 million users worldwide. Approximately 75 manuscripts have been published, approximately 100 abstracts presented, and 16 grants secured. To address the under-representation of PI in biomedical sciences, the Partnership has supported 30 graduate fellows, including 8 doctoral students at UH. Two PhD graduates are now faculty members at UOG and engaged in cancer health disparities research. UOG's Micronesian Studies Program now offers a cancer health disparities track, developed by the Partnership and tailored for the Pacific region. In addition, UOG/UHCC faculty, junior investigators, and pre/postdocs receive mentorship, career development, and summer research fellowships; to date, 8 UOG faculty have participated in the summer fellowship program at UHCC, and two have subsequently secured pilot funding. Outreach projects have explored community-based participatory approaches to youth tobacco use prevention and cessation in Guam, and the use of social networking to reduce tobacco-related cancer risk. Community-based participatory research has also led to landmark tobacco-control legislation in Guam, resulting in decreased tobacco use and increased tobacco taxes, a percentage of which supports cancer programs and patient services in Guam, including the Guam Cancer Registry. Current outreach efforts aim to increase cervical cancer screening among Micronesian migrants and build cancer-prevention knowledge and awareness among physicians who serve them in Guam and Hawaii. In conclusion, the Partnership has significantly increased research capacity at UOG and cultivated interest in cancer research among under-represented minority students at the partnering institutions. Supported by NCI grants U54CA143727 and U54CA143728. Citation Format: Carl-Wilhelm Vogel, David C. Ward, Neal A. Palafox, Hali R. Robinett, Rachael T. Leon Guerrero, John A. Peterson. University of Guam/University of Hawaii Cancer Center partnership: Fifteen years of progress in addressing cancer health disparities in Pacific Islanders [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the Eleventh AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2018 Nov 2-5; New Orleans, LA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2020;29(6 Suppl):Abstract nr C125.

Abstract D040: University of Guam/University of Hawaii Cancer Center Partnership: Sixteen years of progress in addressing cancer health disparities in Pacific Islanders

Abstract The University of Guam (UOG)/University of Hawaii Cancer Center (UHCC) Partnership aims to grow cancer research capacity at UOG, develop cancer health disparities research at UHCC focusing on Pacific Islanders (PI), raise awareness of cancer and cancer prevention in Guam (GU), Hawaii (HI) and the US Associated Pacific Islands (USAPI), and increase the number of cancer and biomedical science researchers of PI ancestry in the United States. An infrastructure comprised of 4 principal investigators, over 30 participating faculty, administrative staff, and external and internal reviewers, backed by institutional support and NCI sponsorship, has supported 16 years of research, training, and outreach designed to reduce cancer health disparities and advance health equity among PI in GU, HI, and the USAPI. Since 2009, the Partnership has funded 19 cancer research projects addressing cancer research priorities of global and regional relevance, including cervical cancer and Areca (betel) nut chewing - a traditional practice associated with oral pre/carcinoma, affecting 600 million users worldwide. Ninety peer-reviewed manuscripts have been published, over 100 abstracts presented, and 19 grants secured. To address the underrepresentation of PI in biomedical sciences, the Partnership has supported 33 graduate students including 7 doctoral students at UH. Two PhD graduates are now faculty members at UOG and engaged in cancer health disparities research. UOG’s Micronesian Studies Program now offers a cancer health disparities track, developed by the Partnership and tailored for the Pacific region. In addition, UOG/UHCC faculty, junior investigators, and pre/postdocs receive mentorship, career development, and summer research fellowships; to date, eight UOG faculty have participated in the summer fellowship program at UHCC and most had received U54pilot funding. Outreach projects have explored community-based participatory approaches to youth tobacco use prevention and cessation in Guam, and the use of social networking to reduce tobacco-related cancer risk. Community-based participatory research has also led to landmark tobacco control legislation in Guam, resulting in decreased tobacco use and increased tobacco taxes, a percentage of which supports cancer programs and patient services in Guam including the Guam Cancer Registry. Current outreach efforts aim to increase colorectal cancer screening and HPV vaccination while building knowledge and awareness among physicians who serve Pacific Islanders in Guam and Hawaii. In conclusion, research capacity at UOG has significantly increased, disparities research at UHCC has expanded, and underrepresented minority students are pursuing careers in cancer research. Supported by NCI grants U54CA143727 and U54CA143728. Citation Format: Rachael T Leon Guerrero, Margaret Hattori-Uchima, Hali R Robinett, Carl-Wilhelm Vogel, Neal A Palafox. University of Guam/University of Hawaii Cancer Center Partnership: Sixteen years of progress in addressing cancer health disparities in Pacific Islanders [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the Twelfth AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2019 Sep 20-23; San Francisco, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2020;29(6 Suppl_2):Abstract nr D040.

Advancing Cancer Research in Africa Through Early-Career Awards: The BIG Cat Initiative.

PURPOSEThe burden of cancer in Africa is growing rapidly, and increased cancer research on the continent is a critical component of an effective response. In 2010, the US National Cancer Institute, in partnership with the African Organization for Research and Training in Cancer, launched the Beginning Investigator Grant for Catalytic Research (BIG Cat) initiative to support cancer research projects conducted by early-career African investigators.METHODSTo date, BIG Cat has provided 18 awards of up to $50,000 to support 2-year cancer research projects. In 2017, the National Cancer Institute evaluated BIG Cat’s early outcomes for cancer research and impacts on career development and local cancer research capacity. Data collection consisted of a review of project documentation and a survey fielded to the 12 investigators who had completed their BIG Cat awards.RESULTSBIG Cat–supported research projects have generated locally relevant findings that address a range of cancer sites and multiple areas of scientific interest. The 11 survey respondents produced 43 scholarly products (e.g., publications, presentations) about findings from their BIG Cat research. They reported increases in cancer research funding applications and awards after receipt of the BIG Cat award compared with before the award. They also reported increased resources for cancer research, participation in teaching and mentoring on cancer research, and supervision of cancer research staff. Investigators identified scientific mentoring as a key facilitator of the success of their BIG Cat projects and limited time and funding as key challenges.CONCLUSIONFindings provide early evidence that BIG Cat advanced locally relevant cancer research and facilitated career advancement and development of local cancer research capacity. Findings have implications for the design of future related efforts.

Building capacity for geospatial cancer research in Uganda: a feasibility study

Abstract Background There is a growing epidemic of cancer and other non-communicable diseases in sub-Saharan Africa. Targeted, specific, cost-effective strategies are needed to manage the growing burden of cancer. In high-resource settings, geospatial analysis has transformed cancer control through geographic targeting of interventions and policies. A similar approach could improve cancer control in sub-Saharan Africa; however, georeferenced cancer data and increased geospatial research capacity are needed. Here, we aimed to assess the feasibility of geocoding and mapping small-area cancer data from a cancer registry in Uganda. Methods We established a partnership including the Makerere University Department of Pathology, School of Public Health and College of Computing and Information Sciences, the Kampala Cancer Registry, Uganda, and the Medical College of Wisconsin, USA. The overarching goal of our multidisciplinary and multi-institutional partnership is to increase geospatial cancer research capacity at Makerere University to enhance the prioritisation and targeting of limited cancer prevention and control resources in Uganda. Findings Two medical students from the Medical College of Wisconsin, mentored by faculty at their own institution and Makerere University, worked in Kampala with registry staff to identify, enter, and quality-check geographic codes of residence for approximately 1522 cervical cancer records from 2005 to 2014. Information about district (n=1520, 99·9%) and subcounty (n=1486, 97·6%) was available for the vast majority of cases, and the parish was identifiable for a large proportion of cases (n=1242, n=81·6%), with increasing availability in more recent years. A seed grant is supporting ongoing capacity building at the Kampala Cancer Registry, including the purchase of new computing hardware and software and the implementation of a revised geographic data collection protocol to support future geospatial analysis of Kampala Cancer Registry data. Interpretation It is feasible to geocode cancer registry records in Kampala, Uganda, and to create cancer incidence maps to identify areas with higher than expected cancer burdens. This capacity building partnership is a catalyst for improving targeted prevention and control efforts to reduce the burden of cancer in Uganda. Funding Dr Elaine Kohler Summer Academy of Global Health Research, Class of 2001 Scott Sprtel Summer Research Training Fellowship, Medical College of Wisconsin Office of Global Health Research Seed Project Funding for Faculty.

Abstract A44: University of Guam/University of Hawaii Cancer Center Partnership: Fourteen years of progress in addressing cancer health disparities in Pacific Islanders

Abstract The University of Guam (UOG)/University of Hawaii Cancer Center (UHCC) Partnership aims to grow cancer research capacity at UOG; develop cancer health disparities research at UHCC focusing on Pacific Islanders (PI); raise awareness of cancer and cancer prevention in Guam (GU), Hawaii (HI), and the U.S. Associated Pacific Islands (USAPI); and increase the number of cancer and biomedical science researchers of PI ancestry in the United States. An infrastructure comprising 6 principal investigators, over 30 participating faculty, administrative staff, and external and internal reviewers, backed by institutional support and NCI sponsorship, has supported 14 years of research, training, and outreach designed to reduce cancer health disparities and advance health equity among PI in GU, HI, and the USAPI. Since 2009, the Partnership has funded 17 cancer research projects addressing cancer research priorities of global and regional relevance, including cervical cancer and betel nut chewing--a traditional practice associated with oral pre/carcinoma, affecting 600 million users worldwide. Approximately 75 manuscripts have been published, approximately 100 abstracts presented, and 13 grants secured. To address the under-representation of PI in biomedical sciences, the Partnership has supported 30 graduate fellows, including 76 doctoral students at UH. Two PhD graduates are now faculty members at UOG and engaged in cancer health disparities research. UOG's Micronesian Studies Program now offers a cancer health disparities track, developed by the Partnership and tailored for the Pacific region. In addition, UOG/UHCC faculty, junior investigators, and pre/postdocs receive mentorship, career development, and summer research fellowships; to date, six UOG faculty have participated in the summer fellowship program at UHCC and two have subsequently secured pilot funding. Outreach projects have explored community-based participatory approaches to youth tobacco-use prevention and cessation in Guam, and the use of social networking to reduce tobacco-related cancer risk. Community-based participatory research has also led to landmark tobacco-control legislation in Guam, resulting in decreased tobacco use and increased tobacco taxes, a percentage of which supports cancer programs and patient services in Guam including the Guam Cancer Registry. Current outreach efforts aim to increase cervical cancer screening among Micronesian migrants and build cancer prevention knowledge and awareness among physicians who serve them in Guam and Hawaii. In conclusion, the Partnership has significantly increased research capacity at UOG and cultivated interest in cancer research among under-represented minority students at the partnering institutions. Supported by NCI grants U54CA143727 and U54CA143728. Citation Format: Carl-Wilhelm Vogel, David C. Ward, Neal A. Palafox, Hali R. Robinett, Rachael T. Leon Guerrero, Robert A. Underwood, John A. Peterson. University of Guam/University of Hawaii Cancer Center Partnership: Fourteen years of progress in addressing cancer health disparities in Pacific Islanders [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the Tenth AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2017 Sep 25-28; Atlanta, GA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2018;27(7 Suppl):Abstract nr A44.

Leveraging the National Cancer Institute Cancer Centers Program to Advance Cancer Research in Low- and Middle-Income Countries: Outcomes of Two Funding Initiatives

Abstract 45 Background: The National Cancer Institute Cancer Centers Program is one of the anchors of the US cancer research effort. The National Cancer Institute’s Center for Global Health (CGH) has supported several initiatives that leverage this national resource to advance cancer research and related activities in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). In 2013, CGH awarded 1-year contracts to 15 cancer centers and partner institutions in LMICs to advance cancer research capacity in LMICs through research, training, and capacity building in a range of areas, including informatics, data sharing, and biorepositories. In 2015, CGH awarded 2-year administrative grant supplements to 10 cancer centers and partner institutions in LMICs to support cancer prevention and control research. Domains included clinical and translational research, detection and diagnosis, surveillance and registries, knowledge sharing, implementation science, informatics and mHealth, and malignancies associated with HIV and chronic infection. The aim of this work was to assess the outcomes and impacts of these investments, including scientific progress, capacity development for cancer research and related activities in LMICs, and capacity development for future partnerships among cancer centers and LMIC institutions, as well as to reflect on how initiative characteristics, such as scope and mechanism, influence outcomes and impacts. Methods: We performed qualitative content analysis of progress reports and final reports. Results: Findings highlight the outcomes and impacts of these investments in partnerships among cancer centers and LMIC institutions, and shed light on the influence of funding initiative characteristics. Conclusion: Findings reflect the value of these investments to advance cancer research and related activities in LMICs, and help to inform future CGH engagement with cancer centers. AUTHORS' DISCLOSURES OF POTENTIAL CONFLICTS OF INTEREST No COIs from the authors.

Abstract A69: Building a pipeline of minority researchers: Minority students' knowledge of cancer health disparities Moira E. Stuart, PhD. Northeastern Illinois University

Abstract Introduction: Research has shown that cancer disparities disproportionally affect racial, ethnic and underserved populations. This study examined knowledge of cancer risk factors among college students attending a minority serving institution within a P20 funded partnership. Results reflect baseline data used to build a pipeline for students from underrepresented minority (URM) backgrounds to pursue education, research, and careers in cancer health equity professions. Methods: Students (N= 912) attending a Hispanic Serving Institution in the Midwest completed a questionnaire that included questions from the NCI prevalence and survivor facts and general cancer health risk behavior questions from the National American College Health Association Survey. Students ranged in age from 21-64 (m=27), and represented a range of racial/ethnic backgrounds (32% Latino, 10% Black/African American, 10% Asian, and 49% white/Caucasian). Students answered 10 questions about cancer prevalence and morbidity rates among various racial and ethnic populations in the U.S. Example questions included, “What racial ethnic group has the highest overall cancer incidence and death rates for different populations living in the United States?” Respondents were asked to select the correct answer from a choice of five ethnic groups including their own. Responses were analyzed as a dichotomous variable of correct or incorrect providing an accuracy percent for each question. Demographic variables included age, ethnicity, and year in school, and income. Results: Latino males had the lowest accuracy rates (38 %) regarding cancer mortalities and incidences across all ethnicities including their own followed by Latina women at 39%. African American females had slightly higher accuracy of cancer health disparities knowledge with 49% answering accurately. Accurate knowledge levels were lowest among first and second year students (26%); 58% (n = 912) of respondents did not know the cancer incidence and morbidity rates for their own racial or ethnic group. Overall the majority of students (75%) did not know the factors that contribute to cancer health disparities. Knowledge was significantly lower among men, younger respondents and those with less education (P &amp;lt; .001). Discussion: Results for year-one baseline were used to support the development of cancer health equity curriculum and resulted in the successful development and implementation of a health equity course and infusion of cancer content in several other courses. The minority serving institution actively pursued efforts to train their underrepresented students and to build cancer research capacity among junior faculty. Researchers continued to collect data each year for the duration of the P20 collaborative to determine if the infusion of cancer education was effective in developing interest in, and pursuit of, cancer health equity research. Citation Format: Moira E. Stuart. Building a pipeline of minority researchers: Minority students' knowledge of cancer health disparities Moira E. Stuart, PhD. Northeastern Illinois University. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the Ninth AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2016 Sep 25-28; Fort Lauderdale, FL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2017;26(2 Suppl):Abstract nr A69.

Abstract A48: University of Guam/University of Hawaii Cancer Center Partnership: Thirteen years of progress in addressing cancer health disparities in Pacific Islanders

Abstract The University of Guam (UOG)/University of Hawaii Cancer Center (UHCC) Partnership aims to grow cancer research capacity at UOG, develop cancer health disparities research at UHCC focusing on Pacific Islanders (PI), raise awareness of cancer and cancer prevention in Guam (GU), Hawaii (HI) and the US Associated Pacific Islands (USAPI), and increase the number of cancer and biomedical science researchers of PI ancestry in the United States. An infrastructure comprised of 6 principal investigators, over 30 participating faculty, administrative staff, and external and internal reviewers, backed by institutional support and NCI sponsorship, has supported 13 years of research, training, and outreach designed to reduce cancer health disparities and advance health equity among PI in GU, HI, and the USAPI. Since 2009, the Partnership has funded 15 cancer research projects addressing cancer research priorities of global and regional relevance, including cervical cancer and betel nut chewing - a traditional practice associated with oral pre/carcinoma, affecting 600 million users worldwide. Over 70 manuscripts have been published, 90 abstracts presented, and 9 grants secured. To address the underrepresentation of PI in biomedical sciences, the Partnership has supported 26 graduate fellows, including 6 doctoral students at UH. One PhD graduate is now a faculty member at UOG and engaged in research supported by the Partnership. UOG's Micronesian Studies Program now offers a cancer health disparities track, developed by the Partnership and tailored for the Pacific region. In addition, UOG/UHCC faculty, junior investigators, and pre/postdocs receive mentorship, career development and summer research fellowships; to date, five UOG faculty have participated in the summer fellowship program at UHCC and two have subsequently secured pilot funding. Outreach projects have explored community-based participatory approaches to youth tobacco use prevention and cessation in Guam, and the use of social networking to reduce tobacco-related cancer risk. Community-based participatory research has also led to landmark tobacco control legislation in Guam, resulting in decreased tobacco use and increased tobacco taxes, a percentage of which supports patient services in Guam as well as the Guam Cancer Registry. Current outreach efforts aim to increase cervical cancer screening in the islands. In conclusion, the Partnership has significantly increased research capacity at UOG and cultivated interest in cancer research among underrepresented minority students at the partnering institutions. A regional research infrastructure has been established and resources continue to be leveraged to address PI cancer health disparities in Guam, Hawaii, and the USAPI. Master's and PhD-trained graduates of the program are now participating in and directing cancer studies relevant to their communities, and mentoring future scientists committed to the Pacific Region. Supported by NCI grants U54CA143727 and U54CA143728. Citation Format: Carl-Wilhelm Vogel, David C. Ward, Neal A. Palafox, Hali R. Robinett, Rachael T. Leon Guerrero, Robert A. Underwood, John A. Peterson. University of Guam/University of Hawaii Cancer Center Partnership: Thirteen years of progress in addressing cancer health disparities in Pacific Islanders. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the Ninth AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2016 Sep 25-28; Fort Lauderdale, FL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2017;26(2 Suppl):Abstract nr A48.