Cancer’s leading thinkers. Together in one room. 2024 FORUMS RECAP
Oncologists acknowledge that certain populations experience worse cancer outcomes than other groups and that not all individuals benefit equally from new breakthroughs in cancer diagnosis and treatment 8 . A Forbeck Forum focused on the causes of these disparities and discussed ways to ensure future advances benefit all populations. Studies have shown that somatic- germline interactions influence cancer risk; for example, certain genetic mutations (e.g., ERG fusions in prostate cancer, EGFR mutations in lung cancer) are more frequent in specific populations and this may increase a person’s risk of contracting a particular cancer. However, ancestry-related variations in tumor biology are still poorly understood, and the lack of datasets from a wide range of ethnic groups restricts our ability to explore these relationships. Social determinants significantly impact cancer risk and progression; socioeconomic barriers often delay access to cancer care. Stress accelerates disease progression in experimental models, but its effects in humans is not fully understood. The Forum participants concluded that overcoming disparities in cancer research requires a multi-faceted approach that integrates genetic, environmental, and social factors into a comprehensive understanding of cancer risk and treatment. Prioritizing diversity and inclusivity in cancer research will enable the scientific community to work towards more equitable cancer care and improved outcomes for historically underrepresented populations. FORBECK CANCER FORUMS – A UNIQUE WAY OF STIMULATING NEW IDEAS IN CANCER RESEARCH The focus of the Forbeck Foundation is to stimulate multidisciplinary research into childhood and adult cancers and improve diagnostic and treatment options for people living with cancer. Forum participants enjoy the experience of discussing their research with colleagues working in related areas in a way that stimulates new scientific collaborations. Early career investigators and Forbeck Scholars are able to interact with experienced researchers in an open and effective way.
SCIENTIFIC ADVISORY BOARD
John T Kemshead, PhD, FRCPath BioMagnetic Solutions Kristina Cole, MD, PhD Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia James Amatruda, MD, PhD Children’s Hospital Los Angeles
Stephen Chanock, MD National Cancer Institute Clark Chen, MD, PhD University of Minnesota
Sara A Courtneidge, PhD, DSc Oregon Health Sciences Center
Lucy A Godley, MD, PhD Northwestern University
Jan Karlseder, PhD The Salk Institute
Edward Stites, MD, PhD Yale University
Alejandro Sweet-Cordero, MD University of California, San Francisco
Kris C Wood, PhD Duke University
FORBECK SCHOLARS ANDREW HONG,MD, PENG WU, MD, PHD, AND LORETTA LI, MD, AT THE 2024 FALL SCHOLAR RETREAT
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