The Lead Investigator: William E Funk, PhD, Associate Professor, Preventive Medicine (Epidemiology)
The Issue:
Colorectal cancer is the third leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States, and cases are increasing—especially among younger adults. Because our genes haven’t changed significantly over the past few generations, researchers believe environmental factors such as diet, pollution, chemicals, and chronic inflammation may play an important role.
The Project:
This study will use a new, highly advanced blood test to look for tiny chemical “fingerprints” left behind by these environmental exposures. By identifying these fingerprints, researchers hope to better understand what increases a person’s risk of developing colorectal cancer and how the disease progresses.
The research has three main goals:
The Impact:
Ultimately, this work could lead to earlier detection, more personalized screening, and new ways to prevent colorectal cancer before it develops. By identifying risk factors that people may be able to change, this research has the potential to improve outcomes and reduce the impact of colorectal cancer for future generations.