Introduction to Cancer Research Funding
Florida is accepting applications for $60 million in grants to be distributed through its Florida Cancer Innovation Fund, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis announced on Wednesday.
“We can be the difference maker,” the governor said as he called for researchers and innovators to apply for funding.
The Need for Cancer Research
DeSantis and his wife, Casey, spoke on Wednesday at a news conference at the University of South Florida’s Morsani College of Medicine in Tampa about the need for more cancer research and innovation, and said this year’s grants will focus on prevention, particularly through nutrition and lifestyle changes.
The governor said about 40% of cancer cases are preventable through lifestyle changes, including nutrition.
Understanding Preventable Cancer Cases
DeSantis’ figure appeared to reference a 2024 American Cancer Society study that said about 40% of cancer cases could be attributed to modifiable risk factors, including cigarette smoking, excess body weight, alcohol consumption, physical inactivity, diet, and infections.
“What is healthy and what is in our foods?” Casey DeSantis asked. “We want to focus grants and funding for prevention for people who are battling cancer to understand how diet and nutrition play a role in better outcomes.”
Personal Experience and Research
Florida’s first lady said she wondered about factors that contribute to cancer during her treatment for breast cancer several years ago. In 2022, the Florida Consortium of the National Cancer Institute’s Centers program was renamed for Casey DeSantis
Some research on diet and cancer is already underway at the Sylvester Cancer Center at the University of Miami, which is looking at how and when women with endometrial cancer eat can affect the tumor metabolism.
Ongoing Research and Findings
“One of the things I get asked is what can I do to reduce my risk of cancer coming back,” said Tracy Crane, a behavioral scientist who received one of the first rounds of cancer innovation funds. “Knowing what to eat and how to eat is important. We are testing whether shifting meal timing can shift the biology in endometrial cancer.”
Pediatric Cancer Research Funding
Additionally, the governor announced that the state will invest millions of dollars in pediatric cancer research over the next five years through the Cancer Connect Collaborative Research Incubator, which is funded at $30 million. The money will go to innovation at Florida’s four children’s specialty hospitals: Nemours Children’s Hospital in Orlando, Wolfson Children’s Hospital in Jacksonville, Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital in St. Petersburg, and Nicklaus Children’s in Miami.
“They are all eligible for multi-year grants. They’re going to be able to expand clinical trials, improve treatment protocols and advance real-world cures. We want to make sure we are not just funding projects but achieving outcomes,” the governor said.
Total Cancer Research Funding
This year alone, Florida has committed $118 million to cancer research through three different initiatives to prevent, detect and treat cancer, he said.
Florida Surgeon General Joseph Ladapo also spoke about the need for more research on the connection between food and cancer.
Conclusion
The state of Florida is taking significant steps towards fighting cancer by providing substantial funding for research and innovation. With a focus on prevention, particularly through nutrition and lifestyle changes, the state aims to reduce the number of cancer cases and improve treatment outcomes. The involvement of prominent figures like Gov. Ron DeSantis and his wife, Casey, underscores the importance of this initiative.
FAQs
Q: How much funding is Florida providing for cancer research?
A: Florida is providing $60 million in grants through its Florida Cancer Innovation Fund, and an additional $30 million for pediatric cancer research over the next five years.
Q: What is the focus of this year’s grants?
A: The focus of this year’s grants is on prevention, particularly through nutrition and lifestyle changes.
Q: How many cancer cases can be prevented through lifestyle changes?
A: According to the governor, about 40% of cancer cases can be prevented through lifestyle changes, including nutrition.
Q: Which hospitals are eligible for multi-year grants for pediatric cancer research?
A: The four children’s specialty hospitals eligible for multi-year grants are Nemours Children’s Hospital in Orlando, Wolfson Children’s Hospital in Jacksonville, Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital in St. Petersburg, and Nicklaus Children’s in Miami.
