Leadership
Research
The research activities of the Division of Population Science are integral to the mission of the Department of Medical Oncology.
In particular, the Division if most active in three areas:
- Establish clinical and translational research partnerships with community organizations, providers and diverse populations;
- Conduct research on cancer risk assessment, early detection, lifestyle modification, treatment adherence, survivorship, quality of life, and participation in clinical trials; and
- Support the development, implementation, and evaluation of strategic initiatives in clinical and translational research
From these areas have emerged three scientific themes that characterize the Division’s research:
- Markers, models and mechanisms
- Decision making and behavior
- Disparities and diverse populations
Markers, Models & Mechanisms
The Division’s funded research included the following:
Cancer Risk
Genetic Modification of the Relationship between Body Mass Index and Prostate Cancer
Commonwealth Universal Research Enhancement Program
Principal Investigator: Charnita M. Zeigler-Johnson
MicroRNA Genetic Variations as Predictors of Hepatocellular Carcinoma Risk
Goal: Evaluate the effect of a pilot panel of microRNA-related genetic variations on the risk of developing hepatocellular carcinoma in patients with chronic hepatitis B infection.
Pennsylvania Department of Health funded study
Principal Investigator: Hushan Yang
Cancer Control
Gene Environmental Risk Assessment (GERA) & CRC Screening
Goal: Evaluate the impact of gene-environment risk assessment (GERA) feedback to average risk persons will significantly increase colorectal screening rate.
NCI-funded study
Principal Investigator: Ronald Myers
Decision Making & Behavior
The Division’s funded research included the following:
Cancer Control
Gene Environmental Risk Assessment (GERA) & CRC Screening
Goal: Evaluate the impact of gene-environment risk assessment (GERA) feedback to average risk persons will significantly increase colorectal screening rate.
NCI-funded study
Principal Investigator: Ronald Myers