Norman-based University of Oklahoma has received a $17.2 million grant from the National Institutes of Health to improve cancer outcomes in Native American tribal nations and communities.
The university will use the five-year grant to help address the cancer death rate among American Indian and Alaska Native populations in Oklahoma, which is 73% higher than that of the general U.S. population, according to an Oct. 16 news release.
Here are four things to know about the award:
- The grant program initiative is called Improving Cancer Outcomes in Native American Communities.
- The Native American Center for Cancer Health Equity at OU Health's Oklahoma City-based Stephenson Cancer Center will lead the program.
- The program will focus on three priorities identified by Oklahoma tribal communities: cancer prevention, screening and care coordination.
- The university will establish best practices in collaboration with 16 tribal communities and a Tribal Advisory Council, the release said.