Blueprint for cancer research: Critical gaps and opportunities

CA Cancer J Clin. 2021 Mar;71(2):107-139. doi: 10.3322/caac.21652. Epub 2020 Dec 16.

Abstract

We are experiencing a revolution in cancer. Advances in screening, targeted and immune therapies, big data, computational methodologies, and significant new knowledge of cancer biology are transforming the ways in which we prevent, detect, diagnose, treat, and survive cancer. These advances are enabling durable progress in the goal to achieve personalized cancer care. Despite these gains, more work is needed to develop better tools and strategies to limit cancer as a major health concern. One persistent gap is the inconsistent coordination among researchers and caregivers to implement evidence-based programs that rely on a fuller understanding of the molecular, cellular, and systems biology mechanisms underpinning different types of cancer. Here, the authors integrate conversations with over 90 leading cancer experts to highlight current challenges, encourage a robust and diverse national research portfolio, and capture timely opportunities to advance evidence-based approaches for all patients with cancer and for all communities.

Keywords: cancer modeling; cancer screening; cancer treatment; precision medicine.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Biomarkers, Tumor / analysis
  • Biomarkers, Tumor / genetics
  • Cost of Illness
  • Early Detection of Cancer / methods
  • Early Detection of Cancer / trends
  • Evidence-Based Medicine / methods
  • Evidence-Based Medicine / organization & administration*
  • Evidence-Based Medicine / trends
  • Humans
  • Mass Screening / methods
  • Mass Screening / organization & administration*
  • Mass Screening / trends
  • Medical Oncology / methods
  • Medical Oncology / organization & administration*
  • Medical Oncology / trends
  • Neoplasms / diagnosis
  • Neoplasms / genetics
  • Neoplasms / mortality
  • Neoplasms / therapy*
  • Precision Medicine / methods
  • Precision Medicine / trends
  • Professional Practice Gaps*
  • United States / epidemiology

Substances

  • Biomarkers, Tumor