Basic research is the study of the fundamental workings of cells - the genes and other microscopic structures that govern how cells are born, grow and die. Because cancer involves a malfunction of a cell's genetic machinery, understanding how malfunctions occur is an important step in devising new therapies.
Clinical research involves testing new drugs and other therapies in patients.
Patients who participate in clinical trials make it possible for doctors to determine which treatments offer the best chance of success against a variety of cancers. Population studies involve the tracking of disease across large numbers of people. By studying cancer trends within broad communities, researchers gain insights into the role that environment and lifestyle play in the development of cancer. Community outreach programs can encourage people to adopt more healthy lifestyles and be more alert to the early warning signs of cancer.