Closing gaps in genetic testing for cancer survivors
Addressing Genomic Disparities in Cancer Survivors
['FUNDING_R01'] · RUTGERS BIOMEDICAL AND HEALTH SCIENCES · NIH-11263647
This project uses community-informed digital tools and outreach to help Black and underserved cancer survivors get genetic testing and counseling.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | RUTGERS BIOMEDICAL AND HEALTH SCIENCES (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (Newark, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11263647 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
If I'm a cancer survivor, this project will offer genetic testing and counseling through a new approach that uses community input and digital tools like videos and an AI 'relational agent' instead of the usual pre-test counseling. Participants will be randomized into two groups—one receiving the digital/community-informed pathway and the other following standard referral to pre-test genetic counseling—so the team can compare reach, completion, and acceptability. The focus is on Black and other underserved survivors, with materials adapted through community engagement to improve understanding and trust. The study will track who completes testing, how people feel about the process, and whether this approach eases demand on scarce genetic counselors.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Adult cancer survivors at higher hereditary risk, particularly Black or other underserved individuals who have not yet had germline genetic testing, are the ideal candidates.
Not a fit: People who lack personal or family indicators of hereditary cancer risk, or who have already completed genetic testing and counseling, may not gain benefit from enrollment.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, more cancer survivors—especially Black patients—could get timely genetic testing and counseling that informs treatment decisions and helps at-risk relatives.
How similar studies have performed: Digital education and automated counseling tools have shown promise in some settings, but rigorously tested, community-tailored approaches for Black cancer survivors are still limited.
Where this research is happening
Newark, UNITED STATES
- RUTGERS BIOMEDICAL AND HEALTH SCIENCES — Newark, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: KINNEY, ANITA Y. — RUTGERS BIOMEDICAL AND HEALTH SCIENCES
- Study coordinator: KINNEY, ANITA Y.
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions: Advanced Cancer