#USA #Cancer Trials #Leukemia Society #Equity Research #RYE BROOK, NY

Leukemia & Lymphoma Society: New Application Process for Cancer Trial Research

The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS) has officially announced that applications are now open for its Equity in Access Research Program, targeting researchers focused on increasing cancer clinical trial accretion for underserved populations. This initiative underscores LLS’s commitment to fostering equitable healthcare access for patients battling blood cancers.

Funding for Research Projects

Beginning May 22, 2025, researchers have until September 11, 2025, to submit their Letters of Intent. LLS plans to award up to $2.5 million for each funded study through this program aimed at understanding and eliminating barriers hindering diverse groups from participating in clinical trials. The focus areas for 2026 are innovative interventions that enhance therapeutic cancer clinical trial accessibility for marginalized patient populations.

Eric Cooks, Ph.D., Senior Program Director of LLS’s Equity in Access Research Program stated: "This program prioritizes impactful health services research aimed not just at identifying the barriers preventing some patients from accessing vital cancer treatments but also at fostering actionable solutions for change."

Timeline for Applicants

• - May 22, 2025: Application opens.
• - June 18, 2025: A webinar will be held for potential applicants to provide more details about the application process.
• - September 11, 2025: Deadline for submitting Letters of Intent.
• - October 31, 2025: Notifications sent to those invited to submit full proposals.
• - January 29, 2026: Deadline for full proposals.
• - April/May 2026: Award notifications.
• - July 1, 2026: Grant start date.

Through these initiatives, LLS aims to gain critical data that highlights the urgent need for equitable participation in clinical trials, particularly for groups historically underrepresented. These include patients from low-income backgrounds, the elderly (70 years and above), various racially and ethnically minoritized communities, young adults aged 15-39, and those residing in rural regions.

Impact and Recognition

Since its inception in 2022, the Equity in Access Research Program has allocated over $12 million to researchers across the United States. Noteworthy projects include findings from health services researchers that have spurred advocacy efforts leading to vital policy changes for healthcare coverage in cancer treatment. An example can be seen in the work conducted by Dr. Xu Ji and Dr. Sharon Castellino from Emory University, which has been instrumental in advocating for consistent Medicaid coverage for pediatric patients in California.

Support from Prominent Entities

LLS acknowledges the crucial support from Royalty Pharma and AstraZeneca, which facilitate the Equity in Access Research Program. Their generosity enables the organization to combat healthcare disparities in blood cancer care effectively. LLS will be present at the upcoming 2025 ASCO Annual Meeting in Chicago from May 31 to June 2, where attendees can learn more about the current Request for Proposals and network with LLS representatives at booth #10005.

About the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society

Founded to create a world without blood cancer, the LLS is dedicated to finding cures and improving the lives of families affected by blood cancers. Beyond research funding, LLS actively advocates for policies promoting quality healthcare access. For over 75 years, the organization has been a beacon of hope guiding blood cancer patients toward better outcomes. If you're interested in learning more about the program or for media inquiries, please visit www.LLS.org or contact their Information Resource Center at (800) 955-4572.

This article highlights a significant opportunity for researchers aiming to impact cancer care equity. Enhancing access to clinical trials will ultimately lead to more effective cancer treatments available to all patients.

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