Breast Cancer Coalition Announces Webinar on Finding & Accessing Clinical Trials
Rochester, NY – Each month, the Breast Cancer Coalition hosts a webinar as part of the organization’s Evening Education Webinar Series. Focusing on a variety of topics related to health and wellness, the webinars are free and open to the public. On Wednesday, March 25 at 7:00 PM, join in for a discussion on finding and accessing clinical trials.
Presented by Rachael B. Turner, MD, PhD, Ajay Dhakal, MBBS, and Phyllis Jackson, RN, the webinar will provide information and resources for breast and gynecologic cancer patients, family members, caregivers, health care providers, and anyone who wants to feel more confident when learning about cancer clinical trials and accessing treatment options.
"Clinical trials are a way to bring new, more personalized therapies to individuals affected by cancer,” said Dr. Turner. “In the last decade, we have seen an explosion in the types of drugs being used to treat cancers – these include immunotherapies, targeted therapies and hormonal therapies. Clinical trials allow individuals earlier access to these types of exciting treatments."
Phyllis Jackson of Common Ground Health will also discuss accessibility and equity in clinical trials, including common barriers that may prevent people from participating and efforts to ensure research reflects and serves all communities.
“In the Black community, a powerful saying resonates: ‘For us, by us,’” said Jackson. “This phrase beautifully highlights the importance of receiving services and care from those who not only share our color and ethnicity but also understand our unique culture and perspectives. Unfortunately, research often falls short in this area, as there is a noticeable shortage of Black researchers in our community.
"Compounding the issue are the barriers of medical mistrust, racism, and historical trauma, which present significant challenges for Black and brown individuals in participating in clinical trials. However, I believe one of the biggest hurdles is low health literacy. When individuals have health literacy, they can ask informed questions, seek necessary information, and make educated decisions—not just about their current health, but also about factors that could affect their health and that of their families in the future, such as participation in clinical trials. By improving health literacy in these communities, we can pave the way for greater engagement in clinical trials.”
The Evening Educational Webinar Series is generously supported by the Lee C. Rosenthal Memorial Education Fund. ASL interpretation will be provided during the webinar. The 90-minute session will include at least 30 minutes for questions at the end. Register today at https://bccr.org/evening-education-webinars/ and submit questions in advance to rachel@bccr.org.