Arizona Cancer Center :: Science&Research :: GI Spore

What is the GI SPORE RAP?

The Arizona Cancer Center Specialized Program of Research Excellence (SPORE) in Gastrointestinal (GI) Cancer is one of four GI SPORE research programs funded by the National Cancer Institute (NCI). The GI SPORE is charged to translate gastrointestinal cancer research into better diagnosis, care, treatment, and prevention. The immediate goal of the Arizona Cancer Center GI SPORE is to prevent and cure cancers of the colon, esophagus and pancreas through studies in prevention, genetics and therapeutics.

The GI SPORE Research Advocacy Program (RAP) brings patient perspectives into SPORE research to help scientists focus on results and move the science more effectively from the lab to the clinic. RAP helps identify barriers that block advances in cancer prevention, diagnosis and treatment and helps take action to resolve issues.

Who are SPORE research advocates?

GI SPORE research advocates are individuals with a personal history or relationship with cancer, especially (but not exclusive to) cancers of the colon, esophagus and pancreas. Patient advocates include cancer survivors, caregivers, and those at risk who are willing to make a personal commitment to work directly with GI SPORE cancer researchers to help bring the best science to those who are affected by GI cancers.

What do SPORE research advocates do?

GI SPORE research advocates can be active in many ways:
• Participate in local SPORE meetings
• Monthly research meetings
• Annual retreats
• Scientific review panels
• Hold education sessions for patients and the public
• Hold education sessions for scientists and staff
• Participate in clinical trial development
• Review informed consent forms
• Develop patient-oriented tools for SPORE clinical trials
• Distribute trial information to communities
• Review tissue collection and follow-up procedures
• Give input on surveys and other tools in research
• Facilitate collaborations between the Arizona Cancer Center GI SPORE investigators, institutions, companies, and government entitities.

RAP Contact Information: For more information on the Arizona Cancer Center GI SPORE RAP program, contact:

Tamara Burkhead
GI SPORE Clinical Coordinator
Phone: (520) 626-0213
E-mail: tburkhead@azcc.arizona.edu