Division of Population Science

Research

The research activities of the Division of Population Science are integral to the mission of the Department of Medical Oncology.

In particular, the Division if most active in three areas:

  • Establish clinical and translational research partnerships with community organizations, providers and diverse populations;
  • Conduct research on cancer risk assessment, early detection, lifestyle modification, treatment adherence, survivorship, quality of life, and participation in clinical trials; and
  • Support the development, implementation, and evaluation of strategic initiatives in clinical and translational research

From these areas have emerged three scientific themes that characterize the Division’s research:

  • Markers, models and mechanisms
  • Decision making and behavior
  • Disparities and diverse populations

Markers, Models & Mechanisms

The Division’s funded research included the following:

Cancer Risk

Genetic Modification of the Relationship between Body Mass Index and Prostate Cancer

Commonwealth Universal Research Enhancement Program
Principal Investigator: Charnita M. Zeigler-Johnson 

MicroRNA Genetic Variations as Predictors of Hepatocellular Carcinoma Risk

Goal: Evaluate the effect of a pilot panel of microRNA-related genetic variations on the risk of developing hepatocellular carcinoma in patients with chronic hepatitis B infection.

Pennsylvania Department of Health funded study
Principal Investigator: Hushan Yang

Cancer Control

Gene Environmental Risk Assessment (GERA) & CRC Screening

Goal: Evaluate the impact of gene-environment risk assessment (GERA) feedback to average risk persons will significantly increase colorectal screening rate.

NCI-funded study
Principal Investigator: Ronald Myers

Decision Making & Behavior

The Division’s funded research included the following:

Cancer Control

Gene Environmental Risk Assessment (GERA) & CRC Screening

Goal: Evaluate the impact of gene-environment risk assessment (GERA) feedback to average risk persons will significantly increase colorectal screening rate.

NCI-funded study
Principal Investigator: Ronald Myers