Improving cancer outcomes for Native American communities
Official title: Improving Cancer Outcomes In Native American Communities (ICON)
Funded at University of Oklahoma Hlth Sciences Ctr · NIH-11161057 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is working to help American Indian and Alaska Native communities in Oklahoma by finding better ways to prevent and treat cancer, especially by looking at how clean drinking water affects health, and it involves local people to make sure their voices are heard.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Oklahoma Hlth Sciences Ctr NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Oklahoma City, United States) |
| Project start | September 17, 2024 |
| Project end | June 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $3,516,381 |
| NIH project number | 1U19MD020537-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11161057 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation include American Indian and Alaska Native individuals living in Oklahoma who are at risk for or affected by cancer.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not identify as American Indian or Alaska Native or those outside the geographic focus of Oklahoma may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research aims to address the high rates of cancer incidence and mortality among American Indian and Alaska Native (AI/AN) communities, particularly in Oklahoma. The project involves collaboration with Indigenous investigators and community partners to conduct research that is meaningful and relevant to these populations. Key areas of focus include cancer prevention, screening, and care coordination, with specific projects designed to assess and mitigate risks associated with drinking water contamination. The research will engage community members to ensure their perspectives and needs are prioritized throughout the process.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved cancer prevention and treatment strategies tailored for Native American communities, ultimately reducing cancer-related health disparities.
How similar studies have gone: Similar research initiatives have shown promise in addressing health disparities in Indigenous populations, indicating that community-engaged approaches can lead to meaningful improvements in health outcomes.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Oklahoma Hlth Sciences Ctr
Oklahoma City, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Rhoades, Dorothy Alison — University of Oklahoma Hlth Sciences Ctr
- Study coordinator: Rhoades, Dorothy Alison
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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.