The AKC Canine Health Foundation Announces New Research Effort to Tackle Canine Lymphoma

To coincide with National Pet Cancer Awareness Month, the AKC Canine Health Foundation (CHF), a nonprofit organization whose mission is to prevent, treat and cure disease in all dogs, is pleased to announce $450,000 in funding for six new research grants to tackle canine lymphoma.

Lymphoma, a common form of cancer in both dogs and people, accounts for up to 25% of all canine cancer cases. Recent advancements in technology and genomics pave the way for these important studies. The six research grants have been awarded to top researchers at the Colleges of Veterinary Medicine at Colorado State University, Cornell University, North Carolina State University, and the University of Wisconsin-Madison.

“Progress in human medicine and breakthroughs in canine cancer genetics present an ideal time to build on CHF’s already significant body of work in canine lymphoma,” said Dr. Diane Brown, CHF CEO.  “Our Scientific Review Committee was pleased at the breadth and the potential impact for these new grants to address this important, and all too common, canine cancer.” Dr. Brown continued, “Because lymphoma also affects humans, findings from this research may translate to adults and children diagnosed with this cancer.”

Lymphoma is an aggressive form of cancer in dogs, and while often treatable, there remains no available prevention or cure. The cancer can develop in either of two types of the dog’s lymphocytes (a type of white blood cell), T or B cells, and strikes dogs of any breed and at any age. The new CHF research projects are balanced to address both T cell and B cell lymphoma, targeting biomarkers for early diagnosis, prognosis and prevention, as well as novel approaches to therapy using genetics and the dog’s own immune system.

To learn more about CHF’s 20+ year history and more than $12 million of funding to fight canine cancer, visit www.akcchf.org/caninecancer.

Support for CHF grants comes from a number of sources, including: corporations, dog clubs and foundations, and individuals who are committed to the betterment of canine health through scientific research. During 2016, donations from new and lapsed donors (last donation 12/31/2013), will be generously matched for research dollar-for-dollar by the American Kennel Club. Make an impact and double your donation today!