Dec 1, 2024 Story by: Editor
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is an aggressive and rare form of breast cancer that spreads more rapidly than other types, disproportionately affecting Black and Hispanic individuals. Black patients, in particular, are at a significantly higher risk of developing TNBC—about twice the risk compared to white patients—and face the lowest survival rates among all racial groups.
Despite this heightened risk, there remains a lack of focused research and resources for Black patients diagnosed with TNBC. To address this gap, a new initiative backed by Gilead has introduced the Black TNBC Sanctuary, an online platform offering comprehensive information about TNBC, clinical trials, and a variety of resources across multiple areas such as community support, genetic testing, survivorship, and mental health.
The Black TNBC Sanctuary was launched by Touch, The Black Breast Cancer Alliance, in partnership with the Triple Negative Breast Cancer Foundation, the American Association for Cancer Research (AACR), and Nueva Vida, an organization supporting Latino cancer patients. The hub was developed with input from over 50 Black TNBC patients and survivors, ensuring that its content meets the needs of the community. The site’s offerings are overseen by a scientific advisory board of experts, including AACR professionals.
“Our goal is to provide a ‘comprehensive support system’ for Black and Afro-Latina patients, as well as their families and caregivers, throughout the diagnosis and treatment process,” said Ricki Fairley, CEO and co-founder of TouchBBCA, in the announcement. “When I was diagnosed with TNBC in 2011, there were no resources specifically for Black patients. We’re thrilled to offer this critical resource now.”
Fairley also emphasized the ongoing struggle to find accurate and accessible information about TNBC for Black patients: “If you search for TNBC and Black, you’re overwhelmed with grim statistics and no solutions. We are excited to have created a resource that will truly help.”
Gilead, the pharmaceutical company behind the initiative, also produces Trodelvy, a medication approved for TNBC treatment. “This resource hub will play a significant role in advancing health equity for Black people affected by TNBC,” said Carmen Villar, Gilead’s VP of public affairs.
Gilead previously launched another online resource, “Expose MBC,” earlier this year, to support metastatic breast cancer patients, particularly those with metastatic TNBC.
The Black TNBC Sanctuary is a step forward in addressing the unique challenges faced by Black and Afro-Latina patients, providing essential support and information during their cancer journey. Source: Fierce Pharma
