The American Lung Association is taking steps to improve lung cancer care for South Florida's Hispanic community. The organization is expanding its Awareness, Trust and Action campaign to Miami and Fort Lauderdale. This initiative aims to increase awareness of clinical trials, address misconceptions, and empower patients and caregivers in these communities.
Dr. Ana Botero, a member of the Lung Association’s South Florida Board and a radiation oncologist with Baptist Health South Florida, highlighted the significance of diversity in clinical trials. "Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths here in Florida and across the country," she stated. "In the past decade, clinical trials have played a crucial role in advancing lung cancer research and improving survival rates." She emphasized that increasing diversity in these trials is essential for saving lives and making a lasting impact.
Irisaida Mendez, a resident of Miami Dade, shared her personal experience with stage IV cancer since 2017. After undergoing a lobectomy and chemotherapy without success, she was offered an immunotherapy treatment through a clinical trial that has been effective in extending her life. Mendez advocates for research as she believes it can lead to finding a cure for lung cancer.
"As a lung cancer survivor, I had to make many decisions about my health," Mendez said. "What helped me the most was to be informed. I tell others facing cancer to ask questions and explore all of your options, like clinical trials."
The campaign receives support from Genentech and Roche.
