Every year tens of thousands of Americans contract different forms of cancer. And every year, millions of dollars are pumped into cancer research. Some of the research money is coming to Southern Colorado.

The University of Southern Colorado in Pueblo has received a grant for $600,000 from the National Cancer Institute. Some of that grant money will be used to study cancer rates in the Hispanic population.

At St. Mary Corwin's Cancer Center, 40 to 50 percent of patients are Hispanic. While breast cancer rates are lower among Hispanic women, other cancer rates are higher.
"Gallbladder cancer, cancers of the pancreas and some cancer of the gastrointestinal tract --- And we're not sure why. That's one reason we were able to get the cancer grant," says Radiation Oncologist Dr. Joel Ohlsen.

At least one of three people in the general population will contract some form of cancer in their lifetime. This study will also look at how toxins in our air, water and soil may play a role in who gets the disease. Dr. Ohlsen says all research is welcome. "Anytime we can improve the kinds of care we can deliver for patients both in terms of detecting cancer and preventing cancer and treating it, we all benefit."

USC was one of four schools in the country to get this grant. The money will be spread out over 3 years.