Cancer Prevention Research Center
Cancer Prevention Research Center (CPRC)
Targeting the Source: Innovative Strategies for Cancer Risk Reduction
The Cancer Prevention Research Center (CPRC) at Shahroud University of Medical Sciences (SHMU) is at the forefront of translational research dedicated to significantly reducing cancer incidence and mortality. Our approach is holistic, integrating epidemiology, molecular biology, and behavioral science to identify, understand, and modify the factors that drive cancer development.
Our Mission:
To translate scientific discoveries into actionable prevention strategies—from public health interventions to novel chemopreventive agents—thereby decreasing the burden of cancer in the community and beyond.
Key Areas of Focus:
The CPRC concentrates its efforts across the spectrum of primary and secondary prevention:
Cancer Epidemiology and Risk Profiling: Conducting large-scale cohort and case-control studies to map population-level risk factors, including environmental exposures, lifestyle choices (diet, physical activity), and inherited susceptibilities relevant to common cancers (e.g., breast, colon, lung).
Molecular Mechanisms of Carcinogenesis: Investigating early molecular events, such as DNA damage, epigenetic alterations, and oncogenic signaling pathways that initiate tumor formation.
Chemoprevention and Early Detection: Testing the efficacy of pharmacological agents and natural compounds in preventing the progression from pre-malignant lesions to invasive cancer. This also includes optimizing screening protocols for high-risk populations.
Behavioral Interventions and Health Communication: Developing and implementing evidence-based health promotion programs focused on tobacco cessation, vaccination compliance (e.g., HPV), and promoting cancer-aware behaviors tailored to diverse cultural contexts.
Opportunities for International Students & Researchers:
The CPRC provides unique avenues for international engagement in the crucial field of cancer prevention:
Longitudinal Study Access: Opportunities to work with established longitudinal datasets for advanced epidemiological modeling and risk factor analysis.
Translational Lab Work: Hands-on experience in cell culture and preclinical models designed to test novel anti-carcinogenic agents identified through our screening programs.
Policy Formulation: Direct involvement in analyzing data to support the development of regional and national cancer control plans.
The Cancer Prevention Research Center is dedicated to creating a future where cancer incidence is dramatically reduced through proactive, science-driven intervention.
Founding Members of the Cancer Prevention Research Center:
Dr. Naghmeh Ahmadian Kia
Dr. Majid Salehi
Dr. Ghasem Goodarzi
Dr. Majid Rahmati
Dr. Maryam Yarmohammadi
Dr. Mehdi Ebrahimi