Promoting Scientist-Advocate Collaborations in Cancer Research: Why and How

Abstract

Advocates bring unique and important viewpoints to the cancer research process, ensuring that scientific and medical advances are patient-centered and relevant. In this article, we discuss the benefits of engaging advocates in cancer research and underscore ways in which both the scientific and patient communities can facilitate this mutually beneficial collaboration. We discuss how to establish and nurture successful scientist-advocate relationships throughout the research process. We review opportunities that are available to advocates who want to obtain training in the evaluation of cancer research. We also suggest practical solutions that can strengthen communication between scientists and advocates, such as introducing scientist-advocate interactions at the trainee level. Finally, we highlight the essential role social media can play in disseminating patient-supported cancer research findings to the patient community and in raising awareness of the importance of promoting cancer research. Our perspective offers a model that Georgetown Breast Cancer Advocates have found effective and which could be one option for those interested in developing productive, successful, and sustainable collaborations between advocates and scientists in cancer research. Cancer Res; 78(20); 5723-8. ©2018 AACR.

Figure 1.

Comprehensive approach for promoting scientist–advocate collaboration at a cancer research institution. Leadership directly supports the education and training of advocates and scientists (including students) to work together as partners in the research process. That can lead to patient-focused research goals and increased dissemination and awareness of cancer research and findings. Collectively, the impact on the community through better research outcomes can promote the overall mission of the cancer research institute, thus creating a sustainable scientist–advocate collaboration for current and future generations.