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Publication Date - 12/3/1999

14. NIH/NIA, NCI & NINR - Aging Women and Breast Cancer

The National Institute on Aging (NIA), the National Cancer Institute (NCI), and the National Institute of Nursing Research (NINR) invite research applications to focus on the unique problems of older women with breast cancer. Since breast cancer affecting elderly women is a major health problem, the purpose of this broad-based program announcement is to expand the knowledge base on breast cancer in older women through studies in the fields of biology, clinical medicine, epidemiology, and the behavioral and social sciences.

This program announcement (PA) focuses in particular on women aged 65 years and older because the highest cancer incidence and mortality rates are found in this age group. Also, women in their mid-70s and older are generally those most severely affected by breast cancer and are already quite likely to have preexisting chronic conditions. Applicants are expected to identify what is meant by "old" in the context of their research. Age comparisons with younger women are appropriate and may be included.

The targeted areas of research relevant to this multidisciplinary solicitation are biology; clinical medicine; epidemiology; behavioral and social sciences. Although not a formal sponsor of this PA, the National Institute on Mental Health (NIMH) is interested in receiving applications if comorbid cancer and mental disorders in women such as depression or anxiety are the focus of study.

The mechanisms of support for this program will be the NIH individual research project grant (RO1), exploratory/development grant (R21), and the small grant (RO3).

Applications are due at the NIH Center for Scientific Review on or before FEBRUARY 1, JUNE 1, or OCTOBER 1, 2000.