Dana-Farber Cancer Institute: Detecting Cancer Sooner and Stopping Precancerous Conditions from Progressing

Laurie H. Glimcher, M.D.
President and CEO, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute 

When we detect cancer early, we have a much greater chance of treating and curing that cancer. This is why Dana-Farber Cancer Institute launched the Centers for Early Detection and Interception, a multidisciplinary clinic and research program specifically designed for individuals who have an increased risk of developing cancer. Through screening, genetic testing, clinical trials, and cutting-edge research, we aim to  detect cancer in its earliest stages and stop precancerous conditions from progressing.  

Our goals at the Centers for Early Detection and Interception are aligned with those of the National Cancer Plan, particularly to prevent cancer, detect cancers early, eliminate inequities, and deliver optimal care. 

We do this by:  

• Increasing access to screening and detection. Earlier detection and interception can be especially important in communities where cancer screening rates are lower, which results in cancer often being diagnosed at a more advanced stage.  The Centers for Early Detection and Interception is accessible to members of all communities. 
• Identifying patients at risk of progression. For patients who are diagnosed with precursor conditions, our teams apply state-of-the-art technologies to define their risk of developing cancer. We facilitate communication with patients to help them understand their risk of progression to active cancer and treatment options to prevent progression. 
• Early prevention and interception. We are leading efforts to develop multiple modalities of early prevention including lifestyle modifications and interception methods such as vaccines, immunotherapy, and early precision medicine to stop cancer before it is symptomatic. 

The Centers for Early Detection and Interception—one of the first clinics in the country dedicated to multi-cancer early detection testing—recently partnered with firefighters around the state, a population disproportionately affected by cancer, to set up routine screening.  

Through this lifesaving work, Dana-Farber continues to lead in cancer prevention, treatment, and research.