Research interests in the field of behavioral, psychosocial, and policy cancer research

The growth of research in behavioral, psychosocial, and policy aspects of cancer is quite evident through examination of the literature. Although it is necessary to recognize the importance of past achievements in these areas, it is equally essential to identify the current interests and future areas that will form a new research agenda. The present study is the first attempt to shed light on these issues by surveying a group of behavioral, psychosocial and policy researchers from 1997 (n = 714) and 2002 (n = 1102). Questions were posed that dealt with current and future research interests. Results indicate a stable core of research interests in the field, as well as changing trends in interest that may affect the direction of future research. Prevention and detection, psychosocial issues, and quality of life were clearly the most recognized research interests. Emerging areas of research interest seem to be special populations and health care delivery. Examination of these findings may help with research planning, funding allocation, management, beginning researcher education, and practice.