How innovation is driving cancer prevention and early detection research
When it comes to cancer research, each discovery brings us closer to a world where cancer is preventable, detectable and beatable for all. Cancer screenings and healthy lifestyle choices can mean better outcomes for your health—that means more treatment options, more healthy days ahead and more time with the people you love. This drives us to support groundbreaking research and innovative technologies that have the potential to revolutionize cancer prevention and early detection.
But we won’t stop until we can prevent, detect and beat all cancers, and we have work cut out for us. We’re taking a look behind the scenes—and in the labs—to highlight Foundation-funded researchers who are discovering and studying innovative technologies for the next big breakthrough in cancer prevention and early detection. Here’s what they’re up to:
埃rin Tagai, Ph.D., MPH
Institution: The Research Institute of Fox Chase Cancer Center, Philadelphia, Pa.
Project title: Development of a ChatBot for Patients Receiving Genetic Testing Results
Since ChatGPT’s emergence in 2022, many have enjoyed the perks of the AI software answering our virtually never-ending questions. Since then, AI’s role in our everyday lives has continued to evolve. But how is AI being used in health care?
Dr. Erin Tagai’s project is a perfect example of the exploration being done with AI in a health care setting. She is developing and evaluating a ChatBot named “GenChat” to deliver genetic testing results to patients. The ChatBot provides easy to understand information about test results and encourages patients to get more information and support from their genetic counselors.
Dr. Tagai’s study will also develop GenChat messages customized to address patients’ perceived risk of developing cancer in the future based on their results, as well as their perceived ability to manage their cancer risk and comprehend their genetic testing results.
With GenChat, Dr. Tagai hopes to strengthen patient-provider communication by equipping patients with what they need to feel confident when addressing health concerns during appointments.
Eric Brouzes, Ph.D.
Institution: Stony Brook University, New York, N.Y.
Project title: Early Cervical Cancer Detection Using a Single Non-Invasive Test
Cervical cancer is highly preventable and is most often caused by 人乳头状瘤病毒 (HPV). The HPV vaccine—recommended for young people ages 9-12 (and up to age 26)—is effective in preventing the majority of HPV-related cancers, including most cervical cancers. Screening for cervical cancer should begin at age 21 if you are at average risk, but some people avoid routine screening due to barriers such as nervousness about the screening, difficulty finding the time (busy schedule), or lack of reliable transportation.
Dr. Eric Brouzes is hoping to change this reality by developing a point-of-care (POC) test for detecting cervical cancer. This unique approach uses a single test that measures the levels of a biomarker that directly correlates with the progression of cervical cancer. Portable and handheld, the testing device is inexpensive and usable in low-resource settings.
The POC test can be taken at home in addition to a health care provider’s office, expanding options and eliminating barriers some women face when it comes to screening. Dr. Brouzes and his team hope this non-invasive test results in empowering more women to self-test, giving them a convenient and flexible option to prevent cancer or detect it early.
另请阅读 | At-home HPV test recently approved by the FDA
Joseph Stember, Ph.D., M.D.
Institution: Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, N.Y.
Project title: Inpainting for Early Detection of Brain Tumors on MRI
Advancements in medical imaging technology, like utilizing MRI scans to detect small brain tumors, are paving the way for more accurate and timely detection, ultimately improving patient outcomes and overall well-being.
Dr. Joseph Stember’s project aims to develop an AI tool to help radiologists pinpoint brain tumors, ultimately leading to timely diagnosis and care for patients.
His team is teaching the AI system how to differentiate between normal brain tissue and cancerous tumors so it can flag abnormal findings. The expanded capabilities this AI system offers could be beneficial by serving as a “second set of eyes” for radiologists, reducing the number of cancers that are missed and saving patients and their loved ones unnecessary stress or concern.
With innovative technologies propelling us forward, we can spark change and create opportunities to catch more cancers in early stages. New screening tests and other early detection advancements give us hope—and better outcomes—in the fight against cancer.
Your continued support is paving the way for advanced technologies for early detection. To learn more about research at the Prevent Cancer Foundation, visit preventcancer.org/research.