Major Programs

DCP's major programs span the cancer research continuum from initial agent and biomarker discovery at the laboratory to final Phase III clinical testing with people.

Clinical Trials
There are two types of cancer prevention clinical trials: action studies that focus on individual actions that can prevent cancer, such as quitting smoking; and agent studies that focus on medicines, vitamins, minerals or food supplements (or a combination of them) that can prevent cancer. Research studies with people to learn about new medical approaches to cancer prevention, risk, early detection, and supportive care are funded by DCP through a variety of grant and contract mechanisms.

Community Clinical Oncology Program
The Community Clinical Oncology Program (CCOP) is a coordinated, integrated clinical trials research network with more than 4,000 physicians who participate in NCI prevention, control, and treatment trials at more than 400 community-based hospitals, clinics, and private medical practices.

Early Detection Research Network
The Early Detection Research Network (EDRN) brings together scientists from varied disciplines at more than 30 institutions to translate new molecular knowledge into practical clinical tests that identify cancer at the earliest stages. Government, academic and industrial leaders in molecular biology, genetics, clinical oncology, computer science, and public health collaborate.

Rapid Access to Preventive Intervention Development
The Rapid Access to Preventive Intervention Development (RAPID) supports critical early stage science by academic and academically-affiliated investigators to help speed novel molecules and compounds from the laboratory to phase I clinical trials. RAPID is intended primarily to provide the materials for proof-of-principle clinical testing.