Cancer Prevention and Control

While cancer is now recognized as a genetic disease, Cancer Prevention and Control investigators also realize that most of the gene mutations that lead to cancer are acquired not inherited. Scientists in our Cancer Prevention and Control Program are committed to identifying the causes of cancer and then applying this knowledge to control the impact cancers have on families and communities. As a result, a primary focus of research is identifying environmental carcinogens and developing methods of prevention.  Investigators also are looking more closely at populations at higher risk for cancer to understand the causes of these higher cancer rates, particularly in prostate, breast, gastrointestinal, and virus-associated cancers.  Since it is clear that not all individuals with known risk factors develop cancer, investigators also are working to understand the unique biology that connects risky behaviors and environmental exposures to cancer development. Cancer control and population interventions, including social and behavioral remedies, are being identified and studied to address cancer disparities, tobacco use, and poor outcomes in patients. Kimmel Cancer Center physicians and investigators work with the Maryland Comprehensive Cancer Plan and the Maryland Cancer Control Council, the primary cancer policy-shaping entities for the state. Cancer Prevention and Control Program leaders are John Groopman, Ph.D., and Elizabeth Platz, Sc.D., M.P.H.