DISCOVERIES 11
CANCER PREVENTION AND CONTROL
UH Cancer Center researchers were among the first to investigate the health effects of electronic cigarette use . Working with Hawai ‘ i high schools , researchers uncovered a growing public health problem among Hawai ‘ i ' s youth . Research with youth and adults has defined the relatively high rate of e-cigarette use in Hawai ‘ i and the Pacific region , discovered the relation of adolescent e-cigarette use to initiation of cigarette smoking , and shown how e-cigarette use is related to respiratory diseases including asthma and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease ( COPD ).
Cultural and recreational use of areca ( betel ) nut by an estimated 600 million individuals is widespread throughout Southeast Asia and the Pacific including Guam . Research has shown the devastating effects of its use resulting in cancers of the oral cavity and other organs . Our researchers have developed the first cessation program for betel nut use and demonstrated its effectiveness in a clinical trial .
ARECA ( BETEL ) NUT
Other studies have shown that physical activity can reduce the risk of cancer recurrence . Our researchers conducted a study with breast cancer survivors to assess whether hula can be an effective strategy to increase physical activity after treatment . In addition to the benefits of exercising for health and well-being , an unexpected outcome of this study was its psychosocial impact on the participants . Motivated to attend the twice weekly hula classes , participants found companionship and emotional support among the close-knit circle of hula sisters .
We have conducted research to increase screening rates for colorectal cancers among Native Hawaiian men to reduce the high rate of cancer deaths in this population . The dissemination of colorectal cancer screening information was done in the culturally appropriate way during men-only sessions . This educational screening activity resulted in a positive outcome for the participants with most getting screened , and a small number of cancer cases detected early .
2004 |
Continuing Umbrella of Research Experiences ( CURE ) supplement to CRCH ’ s P30 Cancer Center Support Grant ( 2004-2018 ) provided cancer research training experiences to Hawai ‘ i high school students & undergraduates from underrepresented minorities each summer . |
2009 |
Michele Carbone , MD , PhD , became Interim Director then officially named Director in 2010 . |
2006 |
Tobacco tax increase bill became law & revenues support CRCH building & operations of the new cancer center in Kaka ‘ ako . |
2009 |
UH Cancer Center / UOG Partnership Grant ( U54 ) received funding to support cooperative activities . |