Engaging AI/AN Communities in Cancer Genomics for Better Screening and Care
Official title: Participant Engagement Unit
Funded at University of New Mexico Health Scis Ctr · NIH-11640963 · Data updated 2026-11-12
A community-engaged research effort to understand cancer genetics in American Indian and Alaska Native people with the goal of improving screening, prevention, and treatment.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of New Mexico Health Scis Ctr NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Albuquerque, United States) |
| Project start | September 2, 2020 |
| Project end | August 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $679,915 |
| NIH project number | 5U2CCA252973-06 |
| Project ID | NIH-11640963 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
AI/AN individuals and AI/AN communities who are willing to participate in genomic cancer studies and related engagement activities.
✕Less likely to help
People who do not want to participate in genomic research or community engagement components may not directly benefit.
What this research studies
This project partners with AI/AN communities to explore how germline and somatic cancer mutations appear in AI/AN populations using comprehensive genomic sequencing. By building trust and involving participants and communities in study design, researchers aim to identify mutation patterns and signatures that could inform better screening and precision prevention. The work will combine genomic data with community engagement to translate discoveries into actionable cancer care improvements for AI/AN people. The approach emphasizes respectful collaboration, culturally appropriate communication, and pathways back to communities for potential clinical benefits.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, findings could lead to earlier cancer detection and more effective, tailored prevention and treatment strategies for AI/AN populations.
How similar studies have gone: Previous cancer genomics work has been limited in AI/AN populations; this study seeks to broaden understanding and apply findings to care.
Where this research is happening
-
University of New Mexico Health Scis Ctr
Albuquerque, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Sussman, Andrew Louis — University of New Mexico Health Scis Ctr
- Study coordinator: Sussman, Andrew Louis
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.