Ida J. Spruill, Ph.D., was a researcher at the Medical University of South Carolina who touched the lives of many through her important research in the Sea Island community. This community is a unique group of African Americans who are known for preserving more of their cultural heritage than any other group of African Americans in the U.S. The group is important to cancer research because it is uniquely positioned to allow genetic studies of complex diseases such as hormone-related cancer.
Spruill was successful in working with the Sea Island community to gain their trust and participation in cancer disparities research. She was known for her devotion to the community and for keeping them informed of research findings.
Spruill passed away in 2016, but her legacy continues. In this video, her colleagues remember her notable contributions and how her work is being continued today at MUSC Hollings Cancer Center.
For more information about Spruill’s legacy, check out this additional video featuring interviews with her family, friends and colleagues.
