Through this Notice of Request for Information (RFI), the National Cancer Institute (NCI) is soliciting input on prioritization of cancer early detection, screening, and prevention science related to primary liver and/or primary pancreatic cancer.

Both primary pancreatic cancer and primary liver cancer are deadly diseases with dismal 5-year survival rates of 10% and 18% respectively. Pancreatic cancer is predicted to be the second leading cause of cancer death in the U.S. by 2030. Liver cancer was the sixth most commonly diagnosed cancer and the third most common cause of cancer death in 2020. Although the incidence and mortality rates from liver cancer have dropped in some countries, the rates have increased in the U.S.with the average annual percentage change (AAPC) for liver (3.7%) and pancreas cancers (1.4%), the need for a concerted effort for translational research that will lead to improved precision early detection, screening, and prevention approaches for these cancers, is critical. (Note: Liver metastasis is outside of the focus of this RFI.)

As NCI develops the national agenda for early detection, screening, and prevention of primary pancreatic and liver cancer, input and insights from all stakeholders including researchers in academic institutions and industry as well as non-academic communities such as advocates, patients and caregivers to identify the most critical research areas is requested. NCI seeks input on the scientific and technological challenges that must be investigated to better understand all subtypes of primary pancreatic and liver cancers. Recommendations for modifications to current programs and directions are also welcome.

NCI seeks recommendations for precision translational research on liver and pancreatic cancer prevention research topics that address gaps in the current state of the science that underlie the increasing incidence and mortality of these deadly diseases. NCI recognizes that new resources, approaches, and programs and infrastructure may need to be identified and addressed and also seeks recommendations in these areas. An overarching goal is to support the identification and development of enduring and sustainable evidence-based precision approaches that will translate into advances in clinical cancer prevention, detection, and screening - rather than short-term self-contained projects.

Responses to this RFI must be submitted electronically to NCIDCP-PC2@mail.nih.gov.

Responses must be received by 11:59 p.m. on January 20, 2023.