Five types of cancer are priorities for EVMS researchers
Cancer is a concern in Virginia. In 2015, the Virginia Department of Health reported that the Eastern region had the highest cancer rates in the state. For the next 25 years, the state’s incidence of cancer is predicted to outpace its population growth.
That’s why we’re proud to say cancer research is a major focus at EVMS.
EVMS’ Leroy T. Canoles Jr. Cancer Research Center fosters collaboration among experts in a range of specialties, including microbiology, pathology, surgery and radiation oncology. Their research focuses on the five types of cancer most prevalent in southeastern Virginia:
- Lung cancer: Lung cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in our region, and more Virginians die from it than any other form of cancer.
- Prostate cancer: Virginia’s prostate-cancer mortality rate is the eighth highest in America.
- Breast cancer: One in eight women will get breast cancer in her lifetime. Virginia ranks among the states with the nation’s highest incidence of this cancer.
- Pancreatic cancer: Mortality rates are high because it’s often diagnosed late. By 2020, pancreatic cancer is predicted to be the second leading cause of cancer deaths.
- Head and neck cancer: Norfolk has the highest rate of head and neck cancers in Virginia.
To learn more about cancer research at EVMS, explore the cancer center online.