Dear Friends and Colleagues,
Every October, the pink ribbons appear — a visual impetus to remember, reflect, and recommit. But awareness is only the beginning. Behind every symbol lies critical work: the research, the innovation, the clinical trials, the accessible treatment pathways.
Why It Matters — Beyond Awareness
- In the U.S. in 2025, ACS estimates there will be approximately 316,950 new cases of invasive breast cancer in women, plus another 59,080 cases of ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS). American Cancer Society
- Sadly, an estimated 42,170 women are expected to die from breast cancer this year. American Cancer Society
- While incidence has been rising — about 1% per year in the last decade — death rates have declined (thanks in part to early detection and better therapies). PubMed
- Still, disparities persist. For example, Black women face higher mortality rates at every age group, often due to late diagnosis or limited access to care. American Cancer Society
These numbers are not just statistics. They are lived stories — of families and communities, especially in historically underserved neighborhoods across NYC.
The Role of Research & Treatment Innovation
Research is what turns hope into results — and it depends on sustained investment. Here are some of the levers:
- The ACS currently funds scientists across the country for breast cancer research, supporting basic science, translational work, and clinical trials. American Cancer Society
- In 2023, ACS’s allocation to treatment research (extramural) reached over $56 million — that’s investment into therapies, protocols, and improved patient care. American Cancer Society
- On the state side, the Wadsworth Center (NYS DOH) includes breast cancer research in its extramural funding programs. Wadsworth Center
- Local NYC cancer centers are not only treating but driving clinical trials and research:
- Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center has programs focused on breast cancer and benefits from significant NIH funding. Wikipedia
- Montefiore Einstein runs hundreds of trials and research programs throughout NYC. Montefiore Einstein
- The Tisch Cancer Institute’s outreach spans all five boroughs, connecting community, data, and research. Icahn School of Medicine
These institutions create the pipeline from discovery to healing — from lab bench to bedside. But they need both public and philanthropic support to scale and sustain their work.
What We Can Do — Together
- Raise mindful awareness — not just symbolic, but informed. Share credible data, highlight disparities, uplift local institutions.
- Support organizations strategically — ACS, local cancer foundations (e.g. Cancer Research & Treatment Fund in NYC) CR&T, or cancer centers with strong clinical trial arms.
- Advocate for equitable access — especially in communities where screening, early detection, and treatment are less accessible.
- Center lived experience — elevate the voices of survivors, caregivers, and communities, especially those historically marginalized.
- Encourage public policy that sustains funding — cutbacks to agencies like the National Cancer Institute can jeopardize innovation progress. (For instance, a proposed FY2026 budget outlined significant reductions to NCI funding.) ACS CAN
Final Reflection
Awareness without action is incomplete. In October and beyond, let us use our platforms — our networks, our influence, our storytelling — to stand beside those who fight this disease every day. To advocate that discovery, access, and equity matter. And to ensure that no ribbon remains a symbol without substance.
With deep gratitude and commitment,
Monique
