February 4, 2002

"Epidemiological Research With Minority Populations: Focus on Cancer"
Columbia University, 168th street campus
8:30 am–1:00 pm

This retreat is a collaboration between the Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center and Columbia with the Brooklyn campus of Long Island University (LIU). The focus is on studying and reversing health disparities in cancer incidence and mortality among the underserved populations in Brooklyn and Upper Manhattan. 

The National Cancer Institute (NCI) recognized the collaborative efforts of LIU (Carol Magai) and Columbia (Al Neugut and Sherri Sheinfeld Gorin) last spring. In fact, the NCI provided linked funding to LIU and Columbia, which enabled both institutions to provide support to pilot projects in the two communities or in labs at the respective institutions (While our emphases have been oriented more towards public health-type projects, basic research on health disparities is also welcome.). The funds also supported educational opportunities for students and trainees from both institutions, especially from underrepresented groups. Currently, two projects are underway and a call will be issued for proposals for pilots for Year 2. In the meantime, a recent development has been a project with the American Cancer Society to jointly expand breast cancer screening in Central Brooklyn. The Avon Products Foundation has also been far-sighted and proactive in recognizing the need for such projects, and has offered funding and job opportunities available from now through the summer.

This meeting will provide a wonderful opportunity for participants to learn more about epidemiology research and to meet key experts in the field. In addition, there will be opportunities to discuss employment in this area. 

Meeting Agenda: 
8:30–9:00 am - Breakfast 
9:00–10:15 am - First set of 5 talks (15 minutes each) 
10:45–Noon - Second set of 5 talks (15 minutes each) 
12:00–1:00 pm - Working lunch 

1. Announcement of request for proposals; questions & answer session 
2. Discussion from the floor; future of research in the field 
 

RSVP to Arlene King at (718) 246-6475.