Community engagement for cancer patients in Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands
Official title: Community Engagement Core
Funded at Comprehensive Cancer Center/ Univ/pr · NIH-11195048 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This project partners with people in Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands to co-create clear, culturally relevant information and community programs linking extreme weather, pollution, and cancer care.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Comprehensive Cancer Center/ Univ/pr NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Juan, United States) |
| Project start | September 20, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $326,706 |
| NIH project number | 5P20CA294096-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11195048 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal participants are people with cancer, caregivers, and community members living in Puerto Rico or the U.S. Virgin Islands who are impacted by extreme weather or environmental pollution.
✕Less likely to help
People who do not live in the US Caribbean or whose care is not affected by environmental hazards may not benefit directly from this project.
What this research studies
From a patient perspective, the team will work directly with community members, patients, caregivers, and local organizations using a human-centered approach to form a Community Coalition of Partners. They will co-develop culturally and linguistically appropriate materials and outreach strategies about how extreme weather and environmental pollution can affect cancer management and health. Activities will include multi-method engagement, education, and dissemination tailored to Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. The core will support collaboration, collect feedback from affected communities, and help communities use research as a practical tool.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: This work could help patients stay safer during extreme weather, understand environmental risks, and maintain cancer care and follow-up despite disruptions.
How similar studies have gone: Community-engaged approaches have improved health education and disaster preparedness elsewhere, but applying them specifically to cancer care in the US Caribbean is relatively new.
Where this research is happening
-
Comprehensive Cancer Center/ Univ/pr
San Juan, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Michael, Noreen — Comprehensive Cancer Center/ Univ/pr
- Study coordinator: Michael, Noreen
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.