Understanding Oral Cancer Survival Differences Across Ancestries with AI

Study of Biological and Radiographic Biomarkers and Association with Ancestry and Survival Disparities in Oral Cavity Squamous Cell Carcinoma Using AI Approaches

NIH-funded research University of Maryland Baltimore · NIH-11162368

This project aims to understand why patients with oral cavity squamous cell carcinoma from African ancestry sometimes have worse survival rates than those from European ancestry.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Maryland Baltimore NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Baltimore, United States)
Project IDNIH-11162368 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

Oral cavity squamous cell carcinoma is a serious cancer, and we know that patients of African ancestry often face poorer outcomes compared to those of European ancestry. We want to uncover the reasons behind these differences, which are not yet well understood. Our team will use advanced artificial intelligence to look closely at existing patient information, including biological samples, imaging scans, and clinical details, from a large group of patients. By comparing these factors between different ancestries, we hope to identify unique characteristics that contribute to these survival disparities.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: This research focuses on understanding existing data from patients previously diagnosed with oral cavity squamous cell carcinoma, particularly those of African and European ancestry.

Not a fit: Patients without oral cavity squamous cell carcinoma or those not represented in the analyzed ancestry groups may not directly benefit from this specific research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to a better understanding of oral cancer disparities, paving the way for more targeted and effective treatments for all patients.

How similar studies have performed: While the specific causes of these disparities are poorly understood, this novel approach aims to fill a significant knowledge gap by using comprehensive, racially diverse clinical data.

Where this research is happening

Baltimore, 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.