CINJ wins renewal of Comprehensive Cancer Center designation from NCI

The Cancer Institute of New Jersey (CINJ) has been awarded renewal of its Comprehensive Cancer Center designation from the National Cancer Institute (NCI). This prestigious designation, presently awarded to only 41 such centers nationwide, is granted competitively to institutions characterized by the highest comprehensive scientific excellence in cancer research and the ability to bring research discoveries to patients. CINJ is the only NCI-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center in the state of New Jersey. CINJ is also a Center of Excellence of the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey-Robert Wood Johnson Medical School.

A rigorous on-site review of CINJ's scientific programs by the NCI recognized the value of CINJ as a collaborative Consortium Cancer Center; for inclusion of the state's cancer registry/SEER (Surveillance, Epidemiology and End Results) cancer database at CINJ; for increased collaborative multidisciplinary science; for an increase in securing federal peer-reviewed research funding; and for increased clinical trials for patients throughout the state of New Jersey.

It was also noted that Dr. Robert S. DiPaola, the director of CINJ, optimized the structure of scientific programs to enhance research collaborations and translation to treatments for cancer patients. In addition, Dr. DiPaola has launched new initiatives to capitalize on the tremendous opportunities afforded by changes in cancer research and technology, including multiple statewide efforts, personalized/precision medicine and systems biology.

"I am honored to lead such a distinguished institution that is making discoveries that will quickly impact patient care and cancer prevention," remarked Dr. DiPaola. "The NCI's recognition of the high quality of our research programs led by our outstanding faculty and staff reaffirms our stature as one of this country's leading cancer centers."

"New Jersey has always been at the forefront of some of the world's most revolutionary medical innovations, treatments and discoveries," said Governor Chris Christie. "The national designation of the renowned Cancer Institute of New Jersey continues that record of scientific excellence and will usher in a new era of advanced diagnostic and treatment technologies for Garden State residents."

By engaging in, and developing research collaborations among scientists from multiple statewide research institutions, CINJ continues to foster opportunities for public-private partnerships with New Jersey's pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries.

While NCI-designated Cancer Centers are considered the centerpiece of the nation's effort to reduce disability and death from cancer, they also are heralded as providing great value to the individual states they serve. As a major force in discovering a cure for cancer and developing more effective approaches to prevention, diagnosis, and therapy, NCI-designated Cancer Centers deliver medical advances to patients and their families, educate healthcare professionals and the public, reach out to underserved populations, and foster industry collaborations.

"The National Cancer Institute recognizes that CINJ is one of this country's most innovative cancer centers," stated UMDNJ Interim President Denise V. Rodgers, MD. "The NCI has reaffirmed what we in New Jersey already know, that CINJ is a vital asset for people throughout this state."

"CINJ is a leader in the development of new therapies, clinical trials, cutting-edge research and improved patient outcomes for New Jersey residents," stated Peter S. Amenta, MD, PhD, dean of UMDNJ-Robert Wood Johnson Medical School. "The renewed NCI designation is the culmination of hard work and a true dedication to excellence."

Source: The Cancer Institute of New Jersey