This year’s Sir Lester Bird Breast Cancer Symposium was a huge success, attracting over 200 attendees and marking its first hybrid event. Thanks to the participants, presenters, planners, and organizers, the Symposium provided a valuable opportunity for everyone to discuss current and future cancer care in the region.

Attendees listened to important discussions about new data and treatment options in breast cancer care, helping them understand how to use this information in their own practices. Christine Joseph, Chair of the Symposium Organizing Committee, emphasized, “What makes the SLBMC Breast Cancer Symposium special is our focus on the entire journey of breast cancer, from research to treatment and long-term care. We address everything, including disparities and survivorship.”

Dr. Albert Duncan, Medical Director of SLBMC, added, “Our goal is to share the latest scientific information that affects patient care and help healthcare professionals prepare for the future. This Symposium is a place to present and discuss progress in breast cancer research while honouring those we’ve lost to the disease and recommitting to fight it.”

He also noted that advancements in cancer care must be supported by effective public health policies to ensure that everyone has access to these improvements. The Symposium featured a special panel discussion that brought together medical professionals and policymakers to discuss important topics, such as the rising number of young cancer patients and the need for more diverse participation in clinical trials.

“We aim to inspire greater trust in the healthcare system,” said Dr. Duncan. “It’s our responsibility as the medical community to ensure that Caribbean, black women and men in the region have access to clinical trials.”

Participants included doctors, nurses, researchers, advocates, patients, and professionals from various sectors, all working together to break down barriers to clinical trial participation. The goal was to empower advocates and healthcare providers with the knowledge needed to improve cancer care for all Caribbean individuals.

Dr. Duncan highlighted the importance of building trust: “We must earn it; it’s not the patients’ job. We see many women with aggressive cancers, yet black people make up less than 10% of all cancer clinical trial participants. This needs to change, and we have a role to play in making it happen.”

The day offered numerous opportunities for networking and support, allowing attendees to gain inspiration and insights from leaders in oncology through various presentations designed to help with career development.