Evaluation of the NIDR Craniogacial Anomalies Research Activities

摘要

Purpose of evaluation was to assess progress made by the program toward achieving stated objectives and to make recommendations to strengthen the program. Specific tasks involved the evaluation of the portfolio of projects by two expert sub-panels and a Main Panel in three major areas: congenital craniofacial anomalies, malocclusion and acquire oral-facial disfigurement. The degree to which the setting of objectives have been appropriate and the balance and progress achieved was determined. The Main Panel integrated the findings from the two sub-panels and prepared a final report. More than 300 projects were reviewed for the purpose of determining relevance to program objectives, gaps in setting of objectives, gaps in research activity, areas to be strengthened, and areas identified for decreased emphasis. Major results indicated the need to focus on primary prevention and early intervention; factors related to development of conditions in humans; and on establishing a broader context for assessing the impact of a disease or condition and its management. Other recommendations included the establishment of research centers of excellence, the encouragement of multi-institutional (cooperative) studies in craniofacial anomalies, the strengthening of interagency communication/collaboration, the initiation of collaborative training, increase of funds allocated for craniofacial anomalies research and the continuation of NIDR established strategies for stimulating research.