Research Discovery: Addressing Prostate Cancer in Understudied Communities

3 days ago | Jasmine Souers | @jasminesouers

While prostate cancer is the most common cancer in men(after skin cancer), its occurrence and impact vary significantly based on factors like race, age, and family history. For example, Black men are more likely to develop prostate cancer and to have worse health outcomes compared to other groups. The goal for the following studies is to understand and reduce these differences, ensuring better health for all men both in our communities and around the world.

Key Efforts and Findings

Understanding Differences in Outcomes: The iCCaRE Consortium studies why prostate cancer affects Black and Hispanic men differently. Researchers look at:
- Biological factors like genetics (how traits are inherited from family).
- Social factors like access to healthcare, financial barriers, and cultural beliefs about medical treatment.
Innovative Solutions: Two iCCaRE projects use mobile health (mHealth) tools—apps and digital resources—to help prostate cancer survivors:
- Make informed choices about their treatment.
- Manage their health more easily after treatment.
Training Future Cancer Researchers: This effort supports 24 early-career researchers, graduate students, and research fellows from understudied backgrounds. These future leaders will continue efforts to reduce differences in prostate cancer disparities in understudied communities.
Community Outreach: This effort also works with the Community Outreach and Engagement (COE) office to share digital resources on prostate cancer and clinical trials. These materials are available in trusted spaces, such as American Legion Posts (community centers for military veterans). This ensures that important health information reaches those who need it most.

Community Impact

Through these efforts, men from understudied communities are being equipped to make informed choices about prostate cancer care. By partnering with local leaders and using technology, iCCaRE aims to create a future where everyone has access to the care and resources they need, working to close the gap in prostate cancer care.

Researchers: F. Odedina, Ph.D., R. Dronca, M.D., C. Ngufor, Ph.D.