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Surgical oncology research. A disappointing status report
F P Avis1, S Ellenberg, M A Friedman
1Surgery Branch, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD 20892.
Abstract:
The purpose of this paper is to evaluate certain aspects of the present status of surgical oncology research. We have attempted to define the magnitude of the problem, characterize features unique to the surgical community, and formulate potential solutions. Demographic data concerning grant applications submitted to and funded by the National Cancer Institute (NCI) over the time period from 1980 to 1985 were analyzed. Departments of surgery submitted and were awarded substantially fewer grants over the study period than departments of medicine. Additionally, the number of applications submitted from departments of medicine increased during this time period while those from departments of surgery declined. This record is particularly worrisome because it occurred during a period of time of unprecedented scientific and educational opportunities and support mechanisms provided by the NCI. Further conclusions and potential solutions are discussed in this paper.
Insights
Surgical oncology research funding from the National Cancer Institute (NCI) declined between 1980-1985, with surgery departments submitting fewer grant applications than medicine departments. This trend is concerning given NCI
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Surgical Research
- Grant Funding Analysis
Background:
- Surgical oncology research is critical for advancing cancer treatment.
- Understanding trends in research funding is essential for strategic planning.
- The National Cancer Institute (NCI) is a primary source of cancer research funding.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the status of surgical oncology research.
- To define the scope of challenges in surgical oncology research.
- To identify unique characteristics of the surgical research community and propose solutions.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of demographic data on grant applications submitted to and funded by the NCI.
- Study period: 1980 to 1985.
- Comparison of grant activity between surgical and medical departments.
Main Results:
- Departments of surgery submitted and received significantly fewer NCI grants compared to departments of medicine.
- The number of grant applications from medical departments increased, while those from surgical departments decreased during the study period.
- This decline occurred despite substantial NCI support for scientific and educational opportunities.
Conclusions:
- A concerning downward trend in surgical oncology research funding and application submission was observed.
- The findings highlight a potential disparity in research engagement between surgical and medical departments.
- Further discussion on potential solutions to address these challenges is warranted.