Federal Grant Award Summary

The National Cancer Institute (NCI) awarded The Research Foundation for the State University of New York a $467,581 Project Grant (CFDA 93.393: Cancer Cause and Prevention Research) effective July 1, 2026, through June 30, 2028, to conduct research on the mechanisms of substance use behaviors among young adult cancer survivors. The research employs a mixed-methods ecological momentary assessment approach to identify socioecological drivers of substance use—including motives, distress, late effects, and social factors—in young adult cancer survivors during early survivorship. This investigation addresses a critical evidence gap, as young adult cancer survivors (ages 18–39) report significantly elevated rates of tobacco, alcohol, cannabis, and illicit drug use compared to non-cancer peers and are four times more likely to develop long-term opioid use, yet no evidence-based substance use interventions tailored to this population currently exist.

The research deliverables include an in-depth characterization of substance use mechanisms through an exploratory sequential mixed-methods design, informed by active engagement with young adult cancer survivors and healthcare providers as research partners throughout all phases of the investigation. By identifying the underlying mechanisms driving substance use in this vulnerable population, the project will generate foundational evidence necessary for developing targeted behavioral interventions to mitigate harms including increased cancer recurrence risk, overdose, psychosocial impairment, and exacerbation of late effects such as pain. The work aligns with the National Institutes of Health Stage Model for behavioral intervention development and incorporates patient-centered research principles.