Scientific Peer Review of Congressionally Directed Medical Research Programs’ Prostate Cancer Research Program For The Department Of Defense.
The Congressionally Directed Medical research Programs’ (CDMRP), Prostate Cancer Research Program (PCRP) consumer advocate recently participated in the evaluation of research application submitted to the PCRP. Byron Sparkman, Monette Arkansas, was nominated for participation in the program by APCF. As a consumer reviewer, Byron was a full voting member, (along with prominent scientists) at meetings to help determine how the $110 million appropriated by Congress for Fiscal Year 2022 will be spent on Prostate Cancer research.
Consumer reviewers are asked to represent the collective view of patients by preparing comments on the impact of the research on issues such as diagnosis, treatment, and quality of life. When comment on serving as a consumer reviewer, Byron said “The opportunity to participate in this medical research program was truly an honor and very encouraging knowing the amount of efforts and level of research being made on Prostate Cancer diagnosis and treatments.”
Consumer advocates and scientists have worked together in this unique partnership to evaluate the merit of research applications since FY97. COL Sarah B. Goldman, Director of the CDMRP, expressed her appreciation for the consumer advocates’ hard work. “Integrating consumer perspectives into our decision-making process brings energy and focus to our research programs. Patients, caregivers, family members, and advocates help us keep our efforts centered around what is truly important to those impacted,” she said.
Researchers applying to the PCRP propose to fund research that will lead to the elimination of death from prostate cancer and enhance the well-being of Service members, Veterans, and all men experiencing impact of the disease.
To learn more about the CDMRP PCRP head to http://cdmrp.army.mil/pcrp/default.
