Program Aims
Identify biological and molecular factors and social determinants contributing to cancer burden
Members of the Cancer Control Program use local and national databases and primary data from patients and communities to examine stress, immunologic factors, health behaviors, neighborhood and other structural factors, and social and health policy mechanisms, and interactions among these, that drive poor and disparate outcomes.
Identify and address health system mechanisms associated with cancer care access, outcomes, and inequities
A research focus of the Cancer Control Program is to identify health care and health system factors that foster inequitable access and care, or impact patient reported outcomes and develop health delivery interventions and policies to improve cancer care and outcomes in our catchment area and beyond.
Develop and test interventions to decrease cancer burden and minimize inequities
Members of the Cancer Control Program work with the Office of Community Outreach and Engagement to engage patients and community members, in a bi-directional manner, to develop behavioral interventions, conduct rigorous randomized trials to test their efficacy, address community identified challenges, and sustain research efforts in community and clinical settings.
Studying Environmental Health in Tribal Communities
MCW researchers are working with Tribal organizations in the Great Lakes region to study environmental exposures and their effects on health. Their work includes developing resources that help communities make informed decisions about fish consumption while respecting traditional foods and practices
Examining Cancer Screening Disparities
Cancer screening rates and experiences differ among transgender and gender-diverse people. Cancer Center researchers are examining screening patterns across this population to better understand gaps in preventive care and opportunities to improve access.
Understanding Differences in Breast Cancer Outcomes
Black women face disparities in breast cancer outcomes, including cardiovascular complications following treatment. Through research such as DECODE Heartland, Cancer Center investigators are studying these differences and whether exercise can help protect heart health during and after breast cancer treatment.
The Connection Between Redlining, Race, Bias, and Breast Cancer
MCW Cancer Center’s Kirsten Beyer, PhD, MPH, MS, and a team of investigators are conducting research to understand how neighborhood characteristics (such as socioeconomic status, racial segregation, home ownership and walkability) influence cancer rates and levels of survivorship.
Program Leader
