Investigating cancer disparities in Black patients through genetic and environmental analysis
Official title: SAMBAI: SOCIETAL, ANCESTRY, MOLECULAR AND BIOLOGICAL ANALYSES OF INEQUALITIES (CGC)
Funded at European Molecular Biology Laboratory · NIH-11046851 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking into why Black patients, especially those from West Africa, have higher rates of aggressive prostate, breast, and pancreatic cancers, and it aims to find out how genetics, environment, and social factors play a role, so we can better understand and address these health disparities.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | European Molecular Biology Laboratory NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Heidelberg, Germany) |
| Project start | May 1, 2024 |
| Project end | April 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $201,118 |
| NIH project number | 1OT2CA297567-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11046851 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation include Black patients, particularly those with a family history of prostate, breast, or pancreatic cancers.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not identify as Black or do not have a relevant family history of the targeted cancers may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the higher rates of aggressive prostate, breast, and pancreatic cancers in Black patients, particularly those from West Africa. By analyzing genetic, environmental, and social factors, the study aims to uncover the underlying causes of these disparities. The SAMBAI team will create a biobank and data repository to collect and analyze data from diverse populations, allowing for a comprehensive examination of how ancestry and environmental exposures affect cancer outcomes. This collaborative effort involves scientists from the US, Africa, and the UK to ensure a global perspective on cancer equity.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved cancer prevention and treatment strategies tailored for underserved populations.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success in addressing cancer disparities through genetic and environmental analyses, indicating that this approach is promising.
Where this research is happening
-
European Molecular Biology Laboratory
Heidelberg, Germany Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Cortes Ciriano, Isidro — European Molecular Biology Laboratory
- Study coordinator: Cortes Ciriano, Isidro
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.