UMMC Cancer Center and Research Institute

01/30/2026

While chemotherapy and radiation remain important tools, advances in immunotherapy and targeted therapies are transforming how we treat cancer. CCRI clinicians and researchers are working every day to bring these innovations to Mississippi, expanding access to treatments that harness the power of the immune system and therapies that attack cancer at its source. Together, we’re shaping a new era of cancer care — one with more hope and more possibilities. https://umc.edu/cancerinstitute

01/28/2026

We’re thrilled to spotlight new cancer research publications from our UMMC experts pushing the boundaries of science and patient care.

Targeting Glioblastoma:
Dr. Pier Paolo Claudio published work on novel anti-glioblastoma drug candidates that can overcome treatment resistance — a major step forward in tackling one of the toughest brain cancers.

Health Equity in Cholangiocarcinoma:
Dr. Rojymon Jacob’s research in Diseases explores how race impacts hospital admissions, outcomes, and care for cholangiocarcinoma patients — highlighting important insights into disparities and how to improve care for all.

We’re so proud of our researchers whose work is helping shape the future of cancer care and health equity — right here in Mississippi and beyond! 💙

01/28/2026

If you or someone you care about is looking to learn more about cervical cancer, screenings like Pap smears, and the HPV vaccine, this Southern Remedy for Women episode is for you! Hosted by Dr. Jasmine T. Kency with special guest Dr. Mildred Ridgway, this conversation covers key health info and practical tips for prevention and early detection.

Cervical cancer is preventable and treatable — and screening saves lives. Take time to listen and share with the women in your life! 🎧

http://southernremedy.mpbonline.org/episodes/southern-remedy-for-women-cervical-cancer-awareness

01/22/2026

Thanks to CCRI’s Dr. Kelsey Koch for reaching out to physicians around the state in the fight against lung cancer!

01/21/2026

Did you know?
Cancer is not a single disease but a collection of related diseases, each with its own causes, symptoms and treatments. Learning more about cancer and the importance of early detection can help improve survival rates. Eating a balanced diet, staying physically active and avoiding to***co and excessive alcohol can lower the risk of certain cancers. Small steps today can make a meaningful difference for your health.
umc.edu/cancer

01/16/2026

Cervical cancer is the fourth leading cause of cancer deaths among women worldwide — but it’s also one of the most preventable. 💙
Regular Pap and HPV tests, along with HPV vaccination, play a critical role in preventing cervical cancer and detecting it early, when it’s most treatable.
Talk with your health care provider about screening and vaccination. Prevention saves lives.
umc.edu/cancer

01/14/2026

A cancer diagnosis can bring a lot of questions — and Survivor University is here to help. 💙

Recently, Dr. Leslie Musshafen, associate director of administration for the Cancer Center and Research Institute, joined Good Things with Rebecca Turner on SuperTalk to talk about this free, online program for adult Mississippians with a cancer diagnosis. Family members and caregivers are welcome, too.

Survivor University connects participants with trusted experts for sessions on nutrition, sleep and fatigue, physical activity, emotional well-being, managing side effects and practical resources for everyday life.

The goal: to empower patients and loved ones with knowledge, support and hope — during treatment and beyond.

Interested in joining? Register here: https://bit.ly/4pqckIz

https://youtu.be/XbTHmldUMz8?si=vwroYusMyAqaoa5q

Dr. Leslie Musshafen(Associate Director of Administration - Cancer Center & Research Institute | UMMC) joins the conversation by phone to detail their "Survi...

01/12/2026

Breakthrough research by Dr. Carolann Risley and her team is improving how cervical cancer is detected and managed nationwide. 🧬
UMMC-led HPV genotype research helped update national clinical guidelines, giving providers better tools to identify cancer risk earlier and personalize care. That’s research turning discovery into better health, right here in Mississippi.

Research on HPV genotypes helped change national cervical cancer management guidelines, improving care in Mississippi and beyond.

01/07/2026

🎉 We’re proud to share that CCRI is featured in the January 2026 AACI Update Newsletter, published by the Association of American Cancer Institutes!
The recognition highlights impactful research led by Dr. Keli Xu, showcasing the important cancer research happening at the Cancer Center and Research Institute at UMMC and its national reach.
Congratulations to Dr. Xu and the research team at CCRI — your dedication and innovation continue to elevate our mission and bring national attention to the life-saving work happening right here in Mississippi! https://www.aaci-cancer.org/aaci-update-january-2026

01/06/2026

Among UMMC’s top stories of 2025 is one highlighting the record-setting $25 million gift from John and Sandy Black to the Cancer Center and Research Institute. We’re grateful for their extraordinary generosity and its impact on patients and families across Mississippi. 💙

01/06/2026

Whether you’re newly diagnosed or deep into treatment, Survivor University is free and open to any adult Mississippian with a cancer diagnosis, and family members are welcome to join, too.

Participants get access to expert-led sessions on topics like nutrition, fatigue and sleep, physical activity, emotional well-being, side-effect management and resources for daily life.

Knowledge is power. Survivor University gives survivors and their loved ones practical information on improving health and quality of life during cancer treatment, and hope for the road ahead. 💙

Register online: https://bit.ly/4pqckIz