University of Arizona Cancer Prevention Clinical Trials Network

The University of Arizona Cancer Prevention Clinical Trials Network (UA CP-CTNet) is at the forefront of advancing cancer prevention through early-phase clinical trials, with a focus on five major organ systems: skin, gastrointestinal, lung and upper aerodigestive, breast and gynecologic, and prostate and other urologic cancers. With strong scientific and academic leadership from Lead Academic Organization (LAO) at the University of Arizona has partnered with George Washington University and 20+ highly collaborative nationally recognized Affiliate Organizations (AOs), UA CP-CTNet rigorously evaluates preventive agents designed to prevent or intercept cancer at its earliest stages. High-impact studies led by the network have contributed to HPV vaccine guidelines, evaluated the preventive potential of low-dose apalutamide in prostate cancer, and are targeting at risk patients such as organ transplant recipient, populations including smokers, and community groups including firefighters. Additionally, UA CP-CTNet is exploring innovative strategies, such as topical immune modulators and microbiome-modifying agents, to prevent skin and cervical cancers. The four core objectives of UA CPCTNet are: (1) to execute scientifically rigorous early-phase trials that target key molecular pathways involved in cancer prevention across these five organ systems, ensuring trials are aligned with the most current scientific advancements; (2) to characterize the clinical activity and biological effects of preventive agents, focusing on molecular targets, immune responses, and key carcinogenesis markers to assess their potential efficacy and safety; (3) to enhance trial efficiency and inclusivity by leveraging modern statistical and trial design methods and by employing a multipronged process involving stakeholder and investigators to consider eligibility and participation barriers and recruitment strategies toward optimizing access and inclusion; and (4) to formalize the UA CP-CTNet training and professional development pipeline to foster the growth of future leaders in cancer chemoprevention. Through these objectives, UA CP-CTNet aims to generate critical early phase clinical and biomarker guided efficacy and safety evidence on promising prevention agents that will drive forward cancer prevention efforts, influence public health policies, and ensure that future cancer prevention research continues to benefit diverse populations and at-risk groups.