Investigating cancer disparities in Black patients through genetics and environmental factors
Official title: SAMBAI: Societal, Ancestry and Molecular Biology Analyses of Inequalities
Funded at New York University School of Medicine · NIH-11046932 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking into why Black patients, especially those from West Africa, tend to have higher rates of aggressive cancers like prostate, breast, and pancreatic cancer, and it aims to gather important information to help improve cancer care for these communities.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | New York University School of Medicine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project start | May 1, 2024 |
| Project end | April 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $108,317 |
| NIH project number | 1OT2CA297569-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11046932 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research 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 reasons behind higher rates of aggressive cancers, such as prostate, breast, and pancreatic cancers, in Black patients, particularly those from West Africa. The team will analyze genetic, environmental, and social factors that contribute to these disparities, using advanced genomic techniques and data collection methods. By creating a biobank and data repository, they aim to gather comprehensive information that can help identify the causes of these inequalities and improve cancer outcomes for underserved populations. The research will involve collaboration with scientists from the US, Africa, and the UK to ensure a diverse and inclusive approach.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and treatment of aggressive cancers in Black patients, ultimately reducing health disparities.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success in addressing cancer disparities through genetic and environmental analyses, indicating that this approach has potential for impactful findings.
Where this research is happening
-
New York University School of Medicine
New York, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Imielinski, Marcin — New York University School of Medicine
- Study coordinator: Imielinski, Marcin
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.