2015 marked 10 years for The Program for the Elimination of Cancer Disparities (PECaD). PECaD, a National Cancer Institute funded program, works to eliminate cancer disparities through cancer prevention and treatment. To celebrate 10 years of accomplishment and collaboration in the community, PECaD hosted an evening of achievement on Sept. 15, 2015, presenting updates, overviews and recognition to those who have been involved with the organization throughout the years.
Graham Colditz, MD, DrPH, welcomes attends to the 10 year celebration of PECaD reception
During the celebration, individuals were updated on the three community partnerships that have active participation in the community, addressing breast cancer, prostate cancer and colorectal cancer. The partnerships were able to recognize key individuals for their participation and dedication in helping promote cancer education and prevention. A tribute was also included for those individuals who PECaD has lost throughout the years.
The evening also recognized recent community research fellows training graduates. This PECaD program aims to engage community members in a 15-week curriculum that focuses on teaching community members the basics of community-based participatory research in order to help underserved populations. Throughout PECaD’s existence, over 100 community members have completed this course, which has led to pilot projects in the community continuing the PECaD mission.
PECaD focuses on strengthening community partnerships to help reduce cancer disparities by working with community individuals, organizations, cancer survivors and advocates as well as researchers to create awareness, promote prevention, screenings and education, and provide resources to the community. In collaboration with Siteman Cancer Center, PECaD attends community outreach events, provides training to clinicians and community members as well as continues cancer disparities research and quality improvement efforts. In 10 years of community engagement and support, PECaD has exponentially grown, and continues to do so.
PECaD is funded by the NCI (U54 CA153460), the Foundation for Barnes-Jewish Hospital, Washington University School of Medicine and the Siteman Cancer Center. Click Here to learn more about PECaD.