Community Engagement Core

Summary One of FAMU Center’s major goals is to reduce cancer variability in the distribution of disease outcomes among populations. Cancer variability refers to the differences in cancer measures, such as incidence, mortality, screening rates, and access to care. Achieving better health outcomes requires an integrated, patient-centered healthcare system, multisectoral engagement, community organizing, and public action. Barriers to high-quality cancer prevention, early detection, and treatment information and services have been identified that impede screening and early detection, among many populations in our catchment areas. Over the last few years, extensive evidence has shown the benefits of active community participation in health research and health promotion. The mission of the CEC is to establish, identify, and support partnerships with the community to create a sustainable research environment for increasing awareness of cancer research and screening. The CEC will enhance the capacity of academic and community partners by fostering increased interaction between FAMU scientists and the community, disseminating research findings, utilizing artificial intelligence (AI) in research, and promoting participation in research studies. Additionally, the core will develop and implement outreach activities to enhance health literacy, promote cancer screening, and foster cancer prevention through nutritional education.