CPRIT grants $6.8 million for cancer prevention programs

The Cancer Prevention and Research Institute of Texas (CPRIT) today awarded over $6.8 million to fund twelve new cancer prevention programs through local clinics, health districts, community-based organizations, and academic institutions across the state of Texas. This is the very first round of prevention grants awarded in CPRIT’s 10-year, $3 billion mission.

“It all starts with prevention and until we find the cure for all cancers, these efforts are critical”

“It all starts with prevention and until we find the cure for all cancers, these efforts are critical,” said James Mansour, CPRIT Oversight Committee Chairman. “This investment places Texas in the forefront of the nation in our commitment to cancer prevention.”

With an emphasis on targeting populations and areas disproportionately affected by cancer, the twelve cancer prevention grants cover a broad spectrum of preventative services and programs such as screening for breast, cervical and colorectal cancers; health promotion and education programs aimed at increasing screening and vaccination rates; and improving the quality of follow-up care for pediatric cancer survivors. The twelve awards were selected from 56 prevention applications submitted to CPRIT.

“I am very pleased with the quality of these twelve awards. CPRIT’s prevention efforts are encouraging unique and innovative partnerships among service providers, academic institutions, and community organizations that will put Texas on the map for advancing cancer prevention and control, and will improve the health of many Texans,” stated CPRIT Chief Prevention Officer Dr. Rebecca Garcia.

Texas voters overwhelmingly approved a constitutional amendment in 2007 establishing the Cancer Prevention and Research Institute of Texas (CPRIT) and authorizing the state to issue $3 billion in bonds to fund groundbreaking cancer research and prevention programs and services in Texas. CPRIT’s goal is to expedite innovation and commercialization in the area of cancer research and to enhance access to evidence-based prevention programs and services throughout the state. CPRIT accepts applications and awards grants for a wide variety of cancer-related research and for the delivery of cancer prevention programs and services by public and private entities located in Texas. More information about CPRIT and the funded awards is available at its website, www.cprit.state.tx.us.