This invention provides methods for using novel substituted pyrimidine compounds, derivatives and analogs thereof to treat diseases such as cancer. Examples of compounds and derivatives for use in the methods are (E)-5-(2-bromovinyl)-2'-deoxy-5'-uridyl phenyl L-alaninylphosphoramidate and (E)-5-(2-bromovinyl)-2'-deoxy-5'-uridyl phenyl L-alaninyl monophosphate.