Enhancing precision oncology for underserved breast cancer patients through deep learning-aided histopathology analysis

The Defense Health Agency (DHA) awarded the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) a $1,038,499 project grant under the Military Medical Research and Development program (CFDA 12.420) effective September 1, 2025, through August 31, 2028. The award funds research and development services focused on enhancing precision oncology for underserved breast cancer patients through deep learning-aided histopathology analysis. The project will be conducted at ASCP's location in Chicago, Illinois, and represents DHA's investment in innovative biomedical research designed to improve healthcare outcomes through advanced artificial intelligence (AI) and pathology-based diagnostic technologies.

Under this three-year project grant, ASCP will deliver research, development, and analytical services integrating machine learning methodologies with histopathological examination to advance breast cancer diagnosis and treatment for populations with limited access to precision medicine approaches. The award aligns with the Military Medical Research and Development program's emphasis on hypothesis-driven research addressing critical health challenges through translational science and innovative medical solutions, with typical performance periods and funding levels consistent with DHA's cancer research portfolio priorities.