Genetic Factors in Breast Cancer: Center for Interdisciplinary Biobehavioral Research

The central goal of the Breast Cancer Behavioral Center is to further our understanding of the impact of biobehavioral factors on genetic aspects of breast cancer in African American women. The Center has three aims: 1) To support an integrated, interdisciplinary, Program of Research consisting of three synergistic Research Projects (with 4 supporting Cores), each of which addresses an important cancer topic and includes psychological and/or behavioral issues. Thus, we propose research projects with implications for breast cancer etiology, behavioral issues, and their interaction; 2) To encourage the development of interdisciplinary thinking among the faculty involved in the Program of Research that can serve as a model for other institutions. Thus, we propose to demonstrate, by example, the utility of an interdisciplinary approach by working together on an integrated project that addresses important issues of interest to all members of the research team. We propose to bridge the gap between biobehavioral research and epidemiologic approaches. 3) To facilitate the development of truly interdisciplinary perspectives among new investigators in breast cancer research. Thus, we propose to provide interdisciplinary training through both didactic and "hands-on" research, as well as informal seminars to outstanding young investigators who represent the future of the field.
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