The Cancer Epidemiology Program (CEP) reduces the burden, mortality and morbidity of cancer through interdisciplinary research into the etiology of different cancers and the development of evidence-based prevention and treatment strategies. CEP is a joint effort by Stanford University and the Northern California Cancer Center.

Drawing on member expertise in epidemiology, genetics, pathology, biostatistics and bioinformatics, CEP conducts large case-control studies in the ethnically diverse Greater Bay Area to determine the incidence of cancer among different populations over time. Particular cancers of interest include breast cancer, ovarian cancer, prostate cancer and lymphomas.

CEP additionally conducts research into the lifestyle, environmental and heritable factors influencing a person's chances of developing cancer as well as the factors influencing a person’s quality of care and survival following diagnosis. Special emphasis is placed on understanding racial, ethnic and cultural disparities in cancer etiology, care and survival with the goal of addressing the unequal burden of cancer in diverse communities.

Key areas of research include:

Surveillance

Etiology

Patterns of Cancer Care

Cancer Progression and Survival

Program Directors

Alice Whittemore, PhD

Esther John, PhD