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Advancing Cancer Workforce Capacity for American Indians and Alaska Natives: The Development of a Validated System to Optimize Trainee Participation and Outcome Tracking

Author

Listed:
  • Kelly A. Laurila

    (Center for Health Equity Research, Northern Arizona University, Flagstaff, AZ 86011, USA)

  • Laurie D. Rogers

    (Office of the Vice President for Research, Northern Arizona University, Flagstaff, AZ 86011, USA)

  • Celina I. Valencia

    (Department of Family and Community Medicine, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85716, USA)

  • Naomi Lee

    (Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Northern Arizona University, Flagstaff, AZ 86011, USA)

  • Hendrik de Heer

    (Department of Health Sciences, Northern Arizona University, Flagstaff, AZ 86011, USA)

  • Jennifer W. Bea

    (Department of Health Promotion Sciences, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85724, USA)

  • Jani C. Ingram

    (Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Northern Arizona University, Flagstaff, AZ 86011, USA)

  • Francine C. Gachupin

    (Department of Family and Community Medicine, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85716, USA)

Abstract

Although American Indian and Alaska Native (AIAN) students are the most underrepresented group in the U.S. in biomedical and health sciences relative to population size, little is known about long-term research education programs and outcome tracking. For over 20 years, the Partnership for Native American Cancer Prevention (NACP) has been supported under the National Cancer Institute’s (NCI)-funded Comprehensive Partnerships to Advance Cancer Health Equity (CPACHE) program. Programming included hands-on mentored research and an array of development opportunities. A validated tracking system combining participation records, institutional records, and enrollment/degree attainment from the National Student Clearinghouse documents outcomes. Collectively (2002–2022) NACP engaged 367 AIAN trainees, of whom 237 individuals earned 220 bachelors, 87 masters, and 34 doctoral/professional degrees. Approximately 45% of AIAN doctoral recipients are currently engaged in academic or clinical work, and 10% in industry or tribal leadership. A total of 238 AIAN students participated in mentored research, with 85% demonstrating strong outcomes; 51% attained a degree, and 34% are currently enrolled. Implementation of a robust tracking system documented acceleration in degree attainment over time. Next steps will evaluate the most impactful training activities on student outcomes.

Suggested Citation

  • Kelly A. Laurila & Laurie D. Rogers & Celina I. Valencia & Naomi Lee & Hendrik de Heer & Jennifer W. Bea & Jani C. Ingram & Francine C. Gachupin, 2024. "Advancing Cancer Workforce Capacity for American Indians and Alaska Natives: The Development of a Validated System to Optimize Trainee Participation and Outcome Tracking," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 21(6), pages 1-14, June.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jijerp:v:21:y:2024:i:6:p:752-:d:1411472
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