Early-Onset Cancers: Investigating Etiology, Mechanisms, and Early Detection Strategies (RP1 Clinical Trials Optional)

The National Cancer Institute (NCI) is inviting applications to investigate the etiology of sporadic non-hereditary early-onset cancers (EOCs: ages 18 to 49 years) and the underlying biological mechanisms that play a role in these cancers. The proposed research should advance the understanding of the unexplained rise of cancers in young adults. The research should address one or more of the following: what modifiable exposures are driving the increase in the incidence of non-hereditary EOCs, what biological mechanisms and host responses underly the increase in EOCs, and how can those at increased risk for developing EOCs be identified more effectively. • The proposed research should investigate the etiology of sporadic non-hereditary early-onset cancers. • The research should address one or more of the following: what modifiable exposures are driving the increase in the incidence of non-hereditary EOCs, what biological mechanisms and host responses underly the increase in EOCs, and how can those at increased risk for developing EOCs be identified more effectively. • Applicants have the option of submitting either an exploratory/developmental research project with a project period of up to 2 years or a research project with a project period of 4 to 5 years. • The NCI is looking for research that will advance the understanding of the unexplained rise of cancers in young adults.