Utilizing the SEER Database to Train Students on Cancer Disparities in Undergraduate Research at the Community College Level

While community colleges may not possess the extensive resources of larger universities, we have devised innovative and cost-effective strategies for integrating undergraduate cancer research into our curriculum. At Seminole State College of Florida, our undergraduate research program is dedicated to equipping students with essential skills in data analytics and Artificial Intelligence (AI) to investigate critical issues surrounding triple-negative breast cancer and prostate cancer, particularly within Latino and African American populations. Leveraging the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database, students conduct comprehensive analyses of patient data, focusing on significant disparities related to race, age, population size, cancer grade, and vital status. This research not only enhances students’ analytical capabilities but also fosters a deeper understanding of the healthcare challenges faced by underserved minorities. By illuminating the existing disparities in cancer outcomes and treatment, our program aims to contribute meaningfully to the reduction of health inequities in these communities. Through collaborative research efforts and hands-on training, we aspire to empower the next generation of researchers and advocates, ultimately fostering a more equitable healthcare landscape for all. This initiative exemplifies how community colleges can play a pivotal role in impactful cancer research despite resource limitations.