Addressing The Cancer Burden In All Populations of African Ancestry
Introduction
The African-Caribbean Cancer Consortium was formed in May 2006 to further the study of viral, genetic, environmental and lifestyle risk factors for cancer in populations of African descent.
Camille Ragin PhD, MPH is responsible for the establishment and development of the consortium. A growing number of dedicated researchers based in the United States, Africa and the Caribbean have joined.
We aim to:
- Address a significant need for studies related to cancer for individuals of African descent
- Advance scientific knowledge of the roles that viral, environmental and genetic risk factors play in cancer etiology among minority populations
- Translate the results to targeted interventions that will reduce the incidence and mortality of cancer in these minority populations
In order to accomplish these aims it is our mission to conduct multi-centered research studies within our international research network, through collaboration, capacity building and training. In addition, we offer specialized services such as grant and manuscript review to investigators in low- to mid- income countries.
Consortium Design
The Consortium consists of an external advisory board, a research review committee and specific working groups devoted to the investigation of cancers in populations of African ancestry. Initially, we will concentrate on breast, prostate, cervical and head and neck cancers.
The AC3 research review committee will review and approve all proposals for collaborative projects from non-AC3 members. The AC3 research review committee will also facilitate discussions related to feasibility of the proposed studies and will identify appropriate AC3 investigators based on their research focus and expertise. Internal collaborations on AC3 research projects will be accomplished through the formation of project-specific AC3 working groups. While breast, prostate, cervical and head and neck cancers are currently our primary focus we intend to broaden our investigations in the future.
Working Group Leaders
Women's Cancers - Breast and Cervical
Dr. Kimlin Ashing-Giwa (USA)
Dr. Raleigh Butler (Caribbean)
Aero-digestive Cancers - Head and Neck, Lung
Dr. Camille Ragin (USA)
Dr. Samuel Gathere (Africa)
Prostate Cancer
Dr. Clareann Bunker (USA)
Dr. Robin Roberts (Caribbean)
Women's Cancers - Breast and Cervical
Dr. Kimlin Ashing-Giwa (USA)
Dr. Raleigh Butler (Caribbean)
Aero-digestive Cancers - Head and Neck, Lung
Dr. Camille Ragin (USA)
Dr. Samuel Gathere (Africa)
Prostate Cancer
Dr. Clareann Bunker (USA)
Dr. Robin Roberts (Caribbean)