Public Interest Group on Cancer Research: a successful patient–researcher partnership in Newfoundland and Labrador

Abstract

Plain English summary Cancer patients and their family members have unique and lived experience with the condition. Therefore, collaborating with them is important in cancer science. We aimed to create such a collaboration in Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada. In 2021, we successfully formed our diverse collaborative group. Currently, our group includes 12 public representatives. We meet online and discuss matters important to members. We also design studies and events together. Our discussions have identified four topics that need further research and policy changes such as information needs and unique needs of caregivers and family members. Our activities expand over time. For example, lately we started to advocate for other cancer patients and families. In conclusion, we formed a successful cancer patient, family member, and researcher collaborative group. Our work informs the public, healthcare systems, and scientists on important cancer related matters.

Keywords

• Cancer
• Caregivers
• Diversity
• EDI
• Family members
• Newfoundland and Labrador