Director's Cut

Director's message

Monday, February 3, 2025

As we step into a new year, we are excited to embark on fresh efforts and celebrate new achievements in our mission to transform cancer care through education, research and innovation.

Cervical Cancer Awareness Month: Get screened

According to the National Cancer Institute, cervical cancer is often preventable, yet an estimated 13,820 women in the United States were predicted to be diagnosed with it in 2024. Dr. Mildred Ridgway, professor of obstetrics and gynecology and chief of the Division of Gynecologic Oncology, emphasized the critical role of prevention in women’s health.

Dr. Ajay Singh, professor of cell and molecular biology and associate director of basic and translational research at CCRI, and Dr. Shashi Anand, instructor, are testing the biochemical changes that occur in cancer cells when exposed to different types of growth environments.

Cancer Center and Research Institute secures $1.4 million grant for prostate cancer research

The University of Mississippi Medical Center Cancer Center and Research Institute received a $1.4 million grant from the U.S. Department of Defense to examine the biological factors contributing to prostate cancer and racial disparities in outcomes.

UMMC launches new cancer biology graduate track

UMMC is starting a new graduate track in cancer biology to prepare and train the next generation of leaders in oncology research and treatment. The track is set to begin in Fall 2025. In this Q&A, Dr. Seema Singh, associate director of education and training at the Cancer Center and Research Institute, discusses the development of the new track.

Cancer Center and Research Institute, National Center for Natural Products Research host natural products and cancer research symposium

The University of Mississippi recently hosted the Natural Products and Cancer Research Symposium, a landmark event that brought together leading researchers, clinicians and students to discuss the intersection of natural products and oncology.

Recent publications: Study uncovers potential biomarker to predict ovarian cancer response to immunotherapy

While most ovarian cancer patients initially respond well to first-line treatments, approximately 80% will experience a relapse within two years and eventually succumb to the disease. The challenge calls for more effective second and third-line treatments to combat recurrence and chemoresistance.

New Hire Spotlight: meet Melissa Wood

Melissa Wood is the new lifestyle medicine nurse practitioner. She will be involved in the Cancer Center's new Lifestyle Medicine Cancer Care program.

Cancer Center and Research Institute honored at American Cancer Society Awards luncheon

CCRI received multiple prestigious awards at the American Cancer Society Awards Luncheon held Dec. 6. The awards reflect UMMC’s continued dedication to innovation, partnership and excellence in cancer care and prevention. Marlene Rios, project manager III; Bethany Sabins, nurse practitioner in the Division of Gynecologic Oncology; and Katie Bass, social worker; proudly show the 2024 Outstanding Health System Partner award.

Upcoming events

A variety of engaging events are lined up for January.

PR pulse monthly insights

PR Pulse is your monthly source for the cancer institute's social media presence. For the latest news and updates on the CCRI, please follow us on Facebook and X. Stay connected and engaged with our latest initiatives and developments!

January 2025