Genetic Factors in Breast Cancer: Center for Interdisciplinary Biobehavioral Research

Abstract : The Behavioral Center has three primary Objectives: 1) To support an integrated, interdisciplinary Program of Research consisting of three synergistic Research Projects each of which addresses an important issue in breast cancer genetic research with African American women that entails critical psychological or behavioral issues. Thus, our first purpose is to do outstanding research, with implications for our understanding of the etiology of breast cancer, as well as for our understanding of behavior per se. 2) To encourage the development of truly interdisciplinary thinking among the faculty involved in the Program of Research that can serve as a model for other institutions. Thus, our second purpose is to show by example, not only the utility of an interdisciplinary approach (synergy with Objective 1), but one approach that may facilitate its achievement - working together on an integrated project that addresses important issues of interest to all members of the research team. We propose to bridge the gap between biobehavioral research and epidemiologic approaches. 3) To facilitate the development of truly interdisciplinary perspectives among new investigators in breast cancer research. Thus, our third purpose is to provide both interdisciplinary training through both didactic and Ahands-on@ (synergy with Objective 1) research, as well as informal seminars (synergy with Objective 2) to outstanding young investigators likely to represent the future of the field.