Program 02: Gynecologic Cancers

Gynecologic Cancers Program Project Summary / Abstract The mission of the Gynecologic (Gyn) Cancers Program is to improve patient outcomes by developing novel strategies for early detection, therapy, and prevention through integrated translational research across the consortium. A related mission is to train and educate the next generation of translational researchers, clinical trialists, outcomes researchers, and basic scientists who focus on Gyn cancers. The Program encompasses investigation of all Gyn cancers including ovarian, endometrial, cervical, vaginal, vulvar, and germ cell cancers as well as gestational trophoblastic disease. Moreover, we respond to the increasing incidence of endometrial cancer (EnCa) in our catchment area (Massachusetts). A previous DF/HCC Program in Gyn Cancers was not included in the last CCSG renewal (2016); the current Program is thoroughly revamped. Its 59 members (47 primary and 12 secondary) represent five DF/HCC institutions and 6 academic departments. In 2019, peer-reviewed grant funding attributed to the Program was $2.1 million in direct costs from the NCI and $1.2 million from other sponsors. During the current funding period, primary Program members published 629 cancer-relevant papers. Of these, 20% were inter- institutional, 27% were intra-programmatic, and 34% were inter-programmatic collaborations between two or more DF/HCC members. For the next CCSG funding period, the Program’s Specific Aims are to: 1) Develop and implement early detection, prevention, diagnostic, and prognostic methods for Gyn cancers in Massachusetts and across the US; 2) Develop and advance novel therapeutic strategies for Gyn cancers; and 3) Educate and mentor the next generation of leaders for Gyn Cancers through fellowship programs, junior faculty development, and placement of junior faculty on national committees. These goals align perfectly with the DF/HCC strategic plan and will require the full suite of CCSG components: shared resources, collaborative infrastructure, an effective system for clinical trial review and conduct, and structured processes for community engagement and cancer research training.