Community Outreach and Engagement at U.S. Cancer Centers: Notes from the Third Cancer Center Community Impact Forum

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Cancer Control
• Health Disparities

Background:

• Community outreach and engagement (COE) is crucial for NCI-Designated Cancer Centers to reduce cancer disparities.
• COE activities include monitoring cancer burden, implementing strategies, research, clinical trial support, and policy initiatives.
• The Cancer Center Community Impact Forum (CCCIF) is a national meeting for COE professionals.

Purpose of the Study:

• To summarize key lessons and overarching themes from the third annual CCCIF meeting.
• To highlight discussions on diverse COE topics relevant to cancer centers.
• To share insights on advancing cancer control through community engagement.

Main Methods:

• The study summarizes presentations and discussions from the third annual CCCIF meeting held in June 2022.
• Content is based on 12 panel sessions covering various COE aspects.
• Information was gathered from over 200 participants and collaborative agenda planning with ASPO.

Main Results:

• Discussions covered critical COE areas: Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI); Policy; State Cancer Coalitions; Evaluation; Implementation Science; In-reach; Outreach; Training; Funding; Clinical Trials; Innovative Methods; and COVID-19 lessons.
• Overarching themes emerged across sessions, providing a comprehensive overview of current COE practices and challenges.
• Key lessons were identified for each COE-related topic discussed.

Conclusions:

• The CCCIF serves as a vital platform for advancing COE strategies in cancer centers.
• Collaborative efforts and focused discussions are essential for addressing cancer disparities.
• Sharing lessons learned across COE professionals enhances the impact of cancer center initiatives.