Improving genetic testing for hereditary cancer in African American families

Family Centered Approaches to Promoting Cascade Screening for Hereditary Cancer Syndromes among African Americans

NIH-funded research University of Michigan at Ann Arbor · NIH-10918086

This study is working to help African American families learn more about genetic testing for hereditary cancer risks, so they can get the support and testing they need to better understand their health and improve cancer outcomes.

Quick facts

Grant typeCareer grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Michigan at Ann Arbor NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Ann Arbor, United States)
Project IDNIH-10918086 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research aims to address the lower rates of genetic testing for hereditary cancer syndromes among African Americans by developing a family-centered intervention. The approach focuses on increasing awareness and access to cancer cascade testing, which provides genetic counseling and testing for relatives of known carriers of cancer-related genetic mutations. By tailoring strategies to meet the unique needs of African American families, the research seeks to enhance participation in genetic testing and ultimately improve cancer outcomes. The project is led by Dr. Katrina Renee Ellis, who is dedicated to advancing her expertise in intervention research and cancer genetics.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are African American individuals and families who may be at risk for hereditary cancer syndromes.

Not a fit: Patients who do not identify as African American or those who are not at risk for hereditary cancer syndromes may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly increase the rates of genetic testing and cascade screening for hereditary cancers among African Americans, leading to earlier detection and better management of cancer risks.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success in using tailored interventions to improve genetic testing uptake in underserved populations, indicating that this approach has potential.

Where this research is happening

Ann Arbor, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.