Georgia Center for Oncology Research and Education

Research and Clinical TrialsGeorgia CORE was founded in 2003 to advance cancer research and improve access to clinical trials around the state. It does that through partnership in a National Cancer Institute program focused on bringing cancer clinical trials to eight sites throughout Georgia. Georgia CORE also works with industry and private foundations to enhance the breadth of treatment trials and facilitate clinical studies in Commission on Cancer accredited hospitals throughout Georgia. Because of Georgia CORE's research network, hundreds of Georgians - with an emphasis on rural and minority patients - have access to clinical trials in their home communities that would not have been available prior to our intervention. In 2022, planning for a statewide clinical trials navigator began that will increase access to trials beyond what has been done in the past.

Cancer Survivorship and NavigationGeorgia CORE is a convener of cancer providers, patients, navigators, survivors, and others to offer access to relevant information and resources for cancer survivors and healthcare providers. Georgia CORE fills a critical need for a coordinated and centralized platform for survivors to access cancer information and resources through our website, GeorgiaCancerInfo.org. The organization offers multidisciplinary conferences and educational programs including a partnership with the Georgia Society of Clinical Oncology to provide education for navigators who address survivors' needs throughout the cancer continuum. We also take nominations and offer awards to recognize people who are making extraordinary efforts to serve cancer patients and survivors.

Cancer Screening and Genetic Risk AssessmentWith a Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) grant, Georgia CORE facilitates colon cancer screenings in southwest and southeast Georgia where screening rates are traditionally lower than in the rest of the state. In collaboration with the Georgia Department of Public Health, genetic risk assessment for Hereditary Breast and Ovarian Cancer is offered to every county health department where Georgia CORE provides genetic testing, consultation, and education. Also, Georgia CORE raises funds for breast cancer screening of rural,underserved and minority women via the sale of Georgia's Breast Cancer License Tag. In partnership with the State Office of Rural Health, more than $4 million has been awarded to more than 25 community partners to conduct screening and education. A new license tag -- the All Together Stop Cancer - tag was first sold in 2022, proceeds of which will be used for education and screening for the state's top five cancers.