Training for cancer control research: A curriculum for Native researchers

Background. Although the incidences of cancer among American Indians, Alaska Natives, Native Hawaiians, and American Samoans are high, few Native researchers have been trained to address these problems in their own populations. Methods. The authors designed and implemented a cancer control research curriculum for 35 Native health care workers, and followed the progress of these trainees over a three-year period. The program included provision of technical support for trainees' grant and fellowship applications, graduate school theses and others professional activities related to cancer control. Results. Only a few of the trainees had professional positions related to cancer control at the beginning of the training sessions; however, a substantial proportion of the 35 trainees redirected their professional efforts toward cancer prevention and control. In addition, several of the training program graduates have been awarded fellowship and small grants for cancer control projects among Native groups. Conclusions. The course may prove useful as a model for similar training courses among special population groups.