ADVANCING CLINICAL TRIALS THROUGHOUT THE PACIFIC
2021 was an exciting year for the Pacific in terms of clinical trials , which play a significant role in decreasing cancer mortality through the development of new effective cancer treatments . Since the establishment of the UH Cancer Center in 1971 , over 16,000 individuals have been enrolled onto cancer clinical trials facilitated by Cancer Center scientists . In our mission to reduce the burden of cancer through research and patient care , the UH Cancer Center continues to prioritize the expansion of access to clinical trials in Hawai ‘ i to patients who live outside of O ‘ ahu , as well as throughout the greater Pacific .
A partner organization in Guam , FHP Health Center , has begun enrolling cancer patients onto clinical trials . In April of 2021 , UH Cancer Center staff provided intensive training for FHP ’ s sole clinical research nurse about adhering to protocols and monitoring patients on clinical trials . As one of Micronesia ’ s leading medical clinics , FHP ’ s ability to provide the highest quality of care for its cancer patients will have a profound impact on cancer mortality in Guam .
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic , we have been seeing a decrease in patient enrollment to clinical trials .
UH CANCER CENTER STAFF JOIN CLINICAL TRIALS STAFF AT FHP HEALTH CENTER IN GUAM
In order to improve cancer care in local communities , UH Cancer Center researchers have recently developed five investigator-initiated clinical studies tailored to the needs of the state ’ s population . Through these studies , researchers seek to better understand and reduce cancer disparities that are unique to Hawai ‘ i and the Pacific .
Lastly , we are steps closer to beginning construction on Hawai ‘ i ’ s first Early Phase Clinical Research Center . Since 2019 , the UH Cancer Center has been securing state , federal , and philanthropic funds and preparing designs for the state ’ s first research center focused on early phase clinical trials . The design and bidding phases of the project neared completion in 2021 , and construction is scheduled to begin in 2022 .
PATIENTS ENROLLED ON CLINICAL TRIALS 2021
Interventional Therapeutic : 58
Non-Interventional Epidemiology , Observational , & Outcome Studies : 504
Total Patients Enrolled on Trials : 562
6