Annual Meeting of the NCI Cohort Consortium (Abstract Submission): Submission #5

Lightning Talks Abstract
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Presenter's First Name: : Monireh Sadat









Presenter's Last Name:: Seyyedsalehi









Title (eg: professor, assistant professor, chair, etc):: Researcher









Degree(s): PhD student









Contact Email:: monireh.seyyedsalehi@studio.unibo.it









Organization:: University of Bologna 









Project Title:: International Esophageal Squamous Cell Carcinoma Consortium (IESC3)









Additional Authors:
1. First Name: Paolo 
   Last Name: Boffetta
   Degree(s): M.D.MPH
   Organization: University of Bologna, Stony Brook university
2. First Name: Michelle 
   Last Name: Hanson
   Degree(s): PhD
   Organization: University of Bologna 










Abstract::
Background: Esophageal cancer (EC) caused an estimated 511,054 new cases and 445,391 deaths globally in 2022. There are two types: adenocarcinoma (AC) and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). ESCC is more common globally and is aggressive, affecting the upper and middle parts of the organ, with higher incidence in low- and-middle-income countries, especially Eastern Asia and Eastern and Southern Africa. Due to differences in EC distribution, specific risk factors are being investigated to understand the likelihood of developing this cancer.

Methods: We aim to create the International Esophageal Squamous Cell Carcinoma Consortium (IESC3) to study the epidemiology of ESCC through collaboration with leading research groups worldwide. This consortium will follow successful models like INHANCE for head and neck cancer and StoP for gastric cancer, focusing on large molecular, genetic, and epidemiologic studies. We plan to present it at the NCI-Co-Co to facilitate more collaborative interactions and include additional cohorts, particularly those that have already undergone data harmonization within the Co-Co.

Results: The consortium will focus on researching the various aspects of ESCC, including the role of geographic, demographic, occupational, and environmental factors in its etiology, as well as the impact on mortality, survival, recurrence, and second primary tumors. Additionally, it will explore the genetic determinants of ESCC, assess the effect of screening methods and awareness programs on prevention, and apply novel epidemiological and statistical methods.

Conclusion/Discussion: This consortium will prioritize the involvement of junior investigators alongside experts and serve as a valuable resource for leading research on this specific cancer type.