African-Americans have the highest mortality rates and shortest survival periods for most cancers, and cancer has been the leading cause of death since 2000 for Asian-Pacific Americans, according to the American Cancer Society. But too often, these and other communities face barriers to cancer diagnosis, treatment, and crucial services. To address this major public health concern, the National Cancer Institute (NCI) has awarded Hunter College and Temple University a major grant to reduce cancer disparities that adversely affect minority communities.
The award will underwrite creation of the Temple University/Fox Chase Cancer Center and Hunter College Regional Comprehensive Cancer Health Disparities Partnership, and contribute to large-scale efforts to better address the critical healthcare needs of underserved communities. This new regional partnership spanning Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and New York City will identify effective approaches to reducing cancer disparities. Hunter’s participation in the grant recognizes the College’s dual strengths in developing groundbreaking scientific research and having the relationships and expertise needed to foster effective outreach to traditionally underserved communities.
“We are so honored to be recognized by NCI and to join with Temple in a new partnership that will build on Hunter’s long commitment to improving health equity through high-impact research,” said Hunter College President Jennifer J. Raab. “At the same time, cancer is not just a disease in a clinical sense – it disrupts families and lives. With our deep community ties and many service-oriented academic programs, we are confident we can make a real difference identifying strategies to reduce cancer disparities while also addressing the multifaceted needs of patients and families affected by the disease.”
