Recap: 2025 Breast Cancer Update Explores Health Disparities And Advances In Detection

The DBCC’s Annual Breast Cancer Update brought together healthcare professionals, advocates, and community members to explore pressing issues in breast cancer care, including racial disparities, access to screening, and advances in prevention and treatment. (Photo provided by ChristianaCare)

Over 150 participants joined the Delaware Breast Cancer Coalition (DBCC) virtually on May 14 for the organization’s 27th Annual Breast Cancer Update, themed “The State We’re In.”

The Zoom-based event brought together healthcare professionals, advocates, and community members to explore pressing issues in breast cancer care, including racial disparities, access to screening, and advances in prevention and treatment.

The program opened with a presentation from Dr. Scott Siegel, who outlined the disproportionate impact of Triple Negative Breast Cancer (TNBC) on Black women in Delaware. He noted that Black women are 40% more likely to die from breast cancer, with lower screening rates and a higher likelihood of late-stage diagnosis.

“The greatest opportunity to reduce disparities,” he stated, “is by addressing prevention.” Dr. Siegel also highlighted geographic hotspots for late-stage breast cancer and introduced targeted strategies like deploying community health workers and using precision public health tools to close the equity gap.

Kendra Flores, another speaker at the event, underscored the evolving role of genetic testing in risk assessment and treatment decisions.

“Genetic differences are what makes us, us,” she said, encouraging patients to revisit genetic testing every two to three years. She also highlighted the importance of interpretation services and introduced the Tyrer-Cuzick model for evaluating hereditary risk.

Dr. Karen Louie shared national screening statistics and updated recommendations, noting a steady decline in breast cancer deaths since 2014. She recommended early and enhanced screening protocols for individuals at high risk, and discussed prevention strategies including lifestyle changes and surgical options.

Zachary Bernard, the 2025 DBCC Grant Recipient, presented research from The Chanpyon Project, which seeks to improve breast cancer screening rates in Sussex County’s Haitian community. Bernard identified transportation issues and misinformation as key barriers.

“The integration of credible messengers and culturally tailored outreach was key to overcoming barriers,” he said.

Nutritionist and breast cancer survivor Dee Iraca offered practical advice for reducing modifiable risk factors through diet and lifestyle. Her session emphasized mindful eating, gut health, and the impact of sleep quality, and concluded with a live cooking demonstration. She also addressed soy consumption, referencing research that links early-life intake with reduced risk of breast cancer.

A range of sponsors, including Delaware Health and Social Services, Beebe Healthcare, Delaware First Health, and Gilead Oncology supported the event.

“The Delaware Breast Cancer Coalition is profoundly grateful for the generous support of our sponsors for the 27th Annual Breast Cancer Update,” said DBCC CEO Francesca Vogel.

“Your commitment to our mission empowers us to provide vital resources, education, and support to individuals and families affected by breast cancer. Thank you for your partnership in making a difference in our community.”