Investigating lung cancer and its link to HIV-1 in East Africa
Official title: Lung cancer in East Africa and the relationship to HIV-1 infection: epidemiology, molecular characterization and imaging
Funded at Case Western Reserve University · NIH-10904973 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how lung cancer and HIV-1 infection are connected in East Africa, aiming to improve how lung cancer is diagnosed and treated, especially for those who might also have tuberculosis, so that patients can get the right care they need.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Case Western Reserve University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Cleveland, United States) |
| Project start | September 21, 2020 |
| Project end | August 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $973,384 |
| NIH project number | 5U54CA254566-05 |
| Project ID | NIH-10904973 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals in East Africa who are at risk for lung cancer, particularly those living with HIV-1.
✕Less likely to help
Patients outside of East Africa or those without a risk of lung cancer or HIV-1 infection may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the relationship between lung cancer and HIV-1 infection in East Africa, where the molecular epidemiology of lung cancer is largely unknown. The project aims to establish diagnostic networks in Uganda and Tanzania to improve lung cancer detection and reduce misdiagnosis, particularly in the context of prevalent tuberculosis. It will also explore how HIV-1 influences lung cancer incidence and outcomes, and assess the molecular profiles of lung cancer to advocate for targeted therapies. Additionally, the research seeks to enhance the capacity for lung cancer diagnosis and care through improved imaging and clinical practices.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better detection and treatment of lung cancer in East Africa, ultimately improving patient outcomes.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific approach of this research is novel, there is evidence that similar initiatives in other regions have successfully improved cancer diagnosis and treatment outcomes.
Where this research is happening
-
Case Western Reserve University
Cleveland, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Gerson, Stanton L. — Case Western Reserve University
- Study coordinator: Gerson, Stanton L.
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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.