Identifying THE GAPS in breast cancer research

This review of existing research -- written and edited by more than 40 experts in breast cancer, the environment, and disparities -- guided the development of our Special Research Initiatives.

Special Research Initiatives

Supporting coordinated, directed and collaborative research that addresses strategic needs in breast cancer research.

In 2004, CBCRP launched Special Research Initiatives (SRI), which devoted 30 percent of CBCRP research funds to support coordinated, directed and collaborative research on the identification and elimination of environmental causes of breast cancer and the identification and elimination of disparities and inequities in the burden of breast cancer in California. These resulted in many successful research projects (pdf).

The creation of the research directions was guided by Identifying Gaps in Breast Cancer Research, written and edited by more than 40 experts in breast cancer, the environment and disparities. We also developed a strategy document, elicited feedback from stakeholders during statewide meetings, and commissioned background papers from expert researchers.

The process was overseen by an external steering committee guiding the SRI's five-phase strategy development plan. Working closely with the SRI Steering Committee and senior California Breast Cancer Research Program staff, the Strategy Team provided expertise and vision to produce research strategies to accomplish our mission.

In March 2010, the council decided to build on the existing SRI by devoting 50 percent of CBCRP research fund between 2011 and 2015. This new effort was titled the California Breast Cancer Prevention Initiatives.