Alana Hudson, Ph.D.
“When we work together - whether through research, education or community engagement – we can make a real and lasting impact.”
Why did you choose to become a doctor/researcher/expert in your field? Was there a specific “a-ha” kind of moment?
I am a West Virginia native and the decision to pursue a career in cancer prevention research was deeply personal. When I was young my maternal grandparents passed away from liver cancer, just three months apart, events that were later investigated by federal public health officials as part of a community cancer investigation. This experience became a defining moment for me. “I wanted to do something to prevent this from happening to other people." That motivation led me into the field of cancer epidemiology, where I could use data to inform strategies that help reduce cancer risk and improve health outcomes.
Why did you choose to come work for West Virginia University?
Before joining the School of Medicine, I held various roles in public health, including serving as the cancer registry epidemiologist director and viral hepatitis program director. My journey eventually led me back to West Virginia University, where I was both an undergraduate student and a long-time collaborator. Having spent more than a decade working alongside faculty and staff in the Department of Cancer Prevention and Control, I knew it was the right place to continue my work. I wanted to be part of a team of professionals I respected, enjoyed working with, and who were dedicated to improving cancer outcomes in West Virginia.
What have you grown to love about your profession?
One of the most rewarding aspects of my role is the opportunity to work with a diverse range of partners, including researchers, community organizations, healthcare providers and public health agencies. I remain closely connected to the West Virginia Department of Health and the dedicated public health professionals that I have partnered with for many years, hoping to strengthen applied public health research. I believe the best outcomes are the result of collaboration.
What are your aspirations while at WVU?
As I look ahead at my career at West Virginia University, I hope to continue expanding my research, which focuses on using population-based data to examine factors influencing cancer rates and outcomes which drive cancer prevention efforts in the state. This work is not just about studying disease patterns, it is about applying that knowledge to create effective evidence-based solutions.