Hudson joins School of Medicine Department of Cancer Prevention and Control

Alana Hudson, PhD, MPH, joined the West Virginia University School of Medicine in November as a service assistant professor in the Department of Cancer Prevention and Control.

In this role, Hudson will provide epidemiological expertise and guidance to the department and members of the cancer institute, supporting efforts to advance cancer epidemiology research and data-driven decision-making. Her research agenda centers on population-based approaches to identifying and addressing modifiable factors to reduce cancer risk. In addition, she will foster collaborations with public health agencies in WV to address critical health issues, particularly the elimination of hepatitis C which is a leading contributor to liver cancer.

Before joining the School of Medicine, Hudson held various leadership roles in public health. She has over 15 years of experience in state public health programming, including serving as the cancer registry epidemiologist director and viral hepatitis program director. She brings extensive knowledge and expertise in surveillance and public health planning, which will be vital in advancing the Department of Cancer Prevention and Control’s efforts to address cancer disparities and improve health outcomes across the state.

Throughout her career, she has published many journal articles and actively contributed to numerous community and professional organizations, serving on steering committees and advisory groups. Hudson earned a Ph.D. in Epidemiology with an emphasis in cancer epidemiology and an MPH from the University of Pittsburgh. She earned a B.S. in Human Nutrition and Foods and a B.S. in Animal and Veterinary Science from West Virginia University.