Director's message

As we continue our work to advance cancer care, we recognize both the progress made and the challenges ahead. Mississippi has the highest rates of colorectal cancer cases and deaths in the nation. To address a decline in colorectal cancer screenings, the UMMC Cancer Center and Research Institute, joined with the Mississippi Colorectal Cancer Roundtable, Mississippi State Department of Health and the American Cancer Society at the state Capitol. The event aimed to encourage statewide efforts to improve screening rates and reduce the impact of colorectal cancer. Expanding the role of advanced practice providers is key to improving patient outcomes, and programs like the Mentoring Intervention for Advanced Practice Providers Across the National Clinical Trials Networkare enhancing their expertise in oncology research. We are proud to have Kenna Nettles representing UMMC in the 2025 MAPP cohort, in which she will gain valuable skills to support cancer patients. Additionally, UMMC researchers are making significant strides in prostate cancer treatment, which is opening doors for new therapies. We also welcome new team members like Mary Harkins who bring experience and dedication to our mission. With initiatives such as the See, Test and Treat screening event taking place on April 5, we remain committed to prevention, early detection and advancing cancer treatment for our community.