Peer Reviewed Cancer Research Program, Congressionally Directed Medical Research Programs

Vision – To advance mission readiness of U.S. military members affected by cancer.

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Since Fiscal Year 2009, the Peer Reviewed Cancer Research Program (PRCRP) has been charged by U.S. Congress to fund innovative basic, applied, and translational cancer research to support Service members, their families, and the American public. Members of the military are exposed to hazardous environments due to the nature of their service and deployments and, thus, are at risk for the development of many types of cancers. The mission of the PRCRP is to successfully promote high-impact research for cancer prevention, detection, treatment, and survivorship. To accomplish this task, the PRCRP seeks to fund different areas of the research landscape. Funding innovative and translational research the PRCRP offers funding opportunities directed toward the special focus of Service members and potential cancer risks; focusing on the gaps in cancer research with respect to unique situations and military environments. Additionally, the PRCRP addresses growing and developing the future in research through targeted funding opportunities for early career investigators. With a funding program focused on military health and welfare in cancer research, the PRCRP strives to improve the quality of life by decreasing the impact of cancer on Service members, their families and the American public by funding highly relevant and innovative research.

Peer Reviewed Cancer Research Program Overarching Challenges

The PRCRP has developed a strategy to address multiple issues in cancer research over the spectrum of different cancer topics considered for funding. These Overarching Challenges are critical gaps in cancer research, care, and/or patient outcomes that will advance mission readiness of U.S. military members affected by cancer and improve quality of life by decreasing the burden of cancer on Service Members, their families, Veterans, and the American public.

Prevention

Investigate innovative prevention strategies and early detection methods to decrease cancer burden.
Elucidate the mechanisms underlying cancer development to improve prevention methods.

Diagnostics/Prognostics

Identify approaches to predict treatment resistance, recurrence, and the development of advanced disease.
Distinguish unique features driving cancer occurrence across the spectrum of ages.
Develop and improve minimally invasive methods to detect cancer initiation, progression, and recurrence.

Therapeutics

Transform cancer treatment, especially for advanced disease and metastasis.
Improve current therapies including systemic and local treatments.
Research longitudinal evaluation of disease progression and/or treatment response.
Elucidate the mechanisms of cancer development to improve treatment methods.

Patient Well-Being and Survivorship

Study methods to address survivorship issues including quality of life, overall mental health, psychological impact of recurrence, and/or survivor permanent disability.
Reduce short- and long-term treatment effects, including neurocognitive deficits.
Investigate ways to bridge gaps between treatment and survivorship including alternative medicine, nutrition and lifestyle factors, and supportive care.

Disparity

Improve prevention strategies, diagnosis, treatment, and outcomes for patients in underserved or under recognized populations.
Study methods to improve accessibility to care and to address survivorship.
Advance health equity and reduce disparities in cancer care through research.

Environmental Exposures and Risk Factors for Cancer (319kb)

Congressional Appropriations