American Indians (AIs) suffer higher cancer mortality rates compared to non-AIs. Under the Cancer Disparities Research Program of the NCI, our research examines methods to improve cancer treatment and outcomes for AIs in Western South Dakota.

Our programming includes providing patient navigation  »more

services, running clinical trials, conducting surveys on access and quality of care with community partners, and a molecular study – ATM (ataxia telangiectasia mutated) gene -- to assess a potential molecular reason for increased treatment induced toxicities. The phase II clinical trials utilize tomotherapy and brachytherapy in order to shorten the overall treatment time. In addition, over 70 clinical trials are open through the cooperative group mechanism.

As of June 2007, 213 AIs have undergone patient navigation, 19 have participated in a clinical trial, 955 have completed the community survey, 56 have completed a cancer survey, and 31 have undergone ATM testing.

Results from each of these data sources will be reported on. Preliminary results from clinical trial participation will also be presented. «less