Our support at St. Luke’s Cancer Institute began by helping update the equipment used to process specimens—strengthening the foundation that makes high-quality research possible. Today, we continue that commitment by funding research projects at St. Luke’s.

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2025 Research

 

Since 2023, Betty Hise for Cancer Research has helped support Idaho’s participation in a nationwide colorectal cancer (CRC) study focused on the alarming rise of early-onset colon cancer. In collaboration with Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, this research is working to better understand why diagnoses in people under age 50 have increased significantly since the 1990s—and what can be done to improve prevention, detection, and outcomes.

 

Colon cancer remains one of the leading causes of cancer deaths in the U.S. The American Cancer Society has highlighted a troubling shift toward younger patients—one reason the recommended screening age was lowered from 50 to 45 for average-risk adults.

 

This year, we renewed our support for the Beyond Colorectal Cancer study, a partnership with the Dana-Farber Harvard Cancer Care Alliance. The study currently has 43 patients enrolled, with the youngest participant age 22 and many patients in their 30s. Operating costs are significant each month, and because this work is not funded through traditional sources, donor support is essential. St. Luke’s Cancer Institute has shared that this generosity helps ensure patients in the Northwest can be represented in this vital research—St. Luke’s is the only hospital west of the Mississippi participating. This study continues working to understand how genetics, diet and lifestyle differences along with resulting changes in gut bacteria are considered potential factors leading to early onset CRC.

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St. Luke’s Cancer Institute serves patients through sites in:

·       Boise : Offers comprehensive cancer care and treatment services.

·       Twin Falls: Provides medical and radiation oncology services. 

·       Meridian: Focuses on advanced cancer treatments and support.

·       Idaho Falls: Offers a range of cancer treatment services.

·       Idaho Pines:  Provides specialized cancer care and support

 

2026 Research

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In late 2025, Betty Hise for Cancer Research presented a $20,000 gift to St. Luke’s Cancer Institute in Idaho to continue support for the Young Onset Colon Cancer, helping strengthen clinical trials and research.  Accepting the gift on behalf of St. Luke’s is Tammie Eslinger, Senior Manager Oncology Clinical Research.

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