Improving access to genetic testing for cancer survivors in underserved communities
Official title: Addressing Genomic Disparities in Cancer Survivors
Funded at Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences · NIH-11021051 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how to make genetic testing for hereditary cancer easier to access for Black cancer survivors by using new digital tools, so they can get the support they need without facing barriers.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Newark, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | March 9, 2023 |
| Project end | January 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $570,175 |
| NIH project number | 5R01CA277599-04 |
| Project ID | NIH-11021051 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include Black cancer survivors who have not received genetic testing and are at high risk for hereditary cancer.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who have already undergone genetic testing or do not identify as part of the targeted racial groups may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research aims to address the significant racial disparities in access to genetic testing for hereditary cancer among survivors, particularly focusing on Black populations. It will explore new models of genome-based care that utilize digital interventions to improve access to genetic counseling and testing, thereby reducing barriers faced by underserved minorities. The study will involve a randomized controlled trial to evaluate the effectiveness of these innovative approaches in enhancing the referral and testing rates for genetic counseling. By engaging with community needs, the research seeks to create a more equitable healthcare system for cancer survivors.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved access to genetic testing for cancer survivors, ultimately enhancing treatment options and preventive measures for both patients and their families.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in using digital interventions to improve access to healthcare services, suggesting that this approach could be effective in addressing genomic disparities.
Where this research is happening
-
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.
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
-
Telehealth exercise program to help rural breast cancer survivors fight fatigue
A telehealth exercise program is being tested to reduce cancer-related fatigue in rural breast cancer survivors.
-
Understanding how survivorship care plans affect health outcomes for cancer survivors
A study will look at whether survivorship care plans help reduce deaths and improve health for adults who have survived cancer.
-
Cancer Pain Management for Asian American Breast Cancer Survivors with Depressive Symptoms
A technology-based program helps Asian American breast cancer survivors with depressive symptoms manage chronic pain more effectively from home using a web app and mobile tools.
-
Social connections and quality of life for kids who survived brain cancer
This project follows pediatric brain cancer survivors as they grow into adults to understand how their social connections affect their happiness and mental well-being.
-
Nutrition and exercise plan to help overweight cancer survivors, using multi-omics to tailor care
A cancer survivorship program combines a tailored diet and exercise plan with multi-omics data to personalize care for adults with overweight or obesity.
-
Addressing financial hardship for cancer patients and their caregivers
A new NIH-funded project aims to develop a practical, adaptable program to reduce financial toxicity for people with cancer and those who care for them.
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.