Project Summary:
The AHW-funded Community and Cancer Science Network (CCSN) was established to address cancer in Wisconsin, the second highest cause of mortality in our state. CCSN’s initial charge was to address breast and lung cancer disparities. To effectively address a problem as multifactorial and interconnected as cancer disparities, an approach which engages diverse sectors with knowledge of the biology, behavior, and/or the socio-cultural and physical environments contributing to disparities is required.
The CCSN collaborative work group initiative brought together diverse sectors including researchers, community-based organizations, and community members. The overarching goal was to use CCSN’s transdisciplinary approach to develop solutions to breast and lung cancer disparities in four communities: Milwaukee (breast and lung), Racine (breast), Walworth (breast), and in the Lac du Flambeau tribal area. Five community-academic workgroups were established to participate in a facilitated collaboration and learning process guided by the CCSN’s theory of change rooted in a four-phase model of transdisciplinary team-based research.
Guided by the socio-ecological model, the three-year Phase 2 transdisciplinary implementation focuses on multiple levels of impact in each community, including people, practice and policy. The locally relevant and culturally grounded approaches will: 1) increase awareness of cancer risks, prevention, and screening; 2) improve access to cancer prevention and early detection efforts; and 3) foster equitable systems.
Phase 2 implementation will be led by experienced local teams and reflect the transdisciplinary orientation and grounding established in Phase 1.
Community Partners: Wisconsin Women’s Health Foundation; YWCA Southeastern Wisconsin; Great Lakes Inter-Tribal Council, Inc.; Planned Parenthood of Wisconsin; Progressive Community Health Centers; Evaluation Plus