O Talks Breast Care, an event organized by the CURA Project Institute, was highlighted on Drauzio Varella's important medical portal for addressing racial inequality in the context of breast cancer. Gramado (RS) was the scene of an essential debate about the challenges faced by black women in accessing the diagnosis and treatment of the disease, in addition to the need for greater racial representation in clinical oncology research.

Alarming data reinforce the urgency of the topic: although more than half of the Brazilian population is black (black and brown), only 24% of women who undergo mammography exams belong to this group. On the other hand, black women represent 47% of serious cases of breast cancer, according to a study conducted by the Avon Institute in partnership with the Oncology Observatory, based on data from DATASUS between 2015 and 2021.

According to Portal, another study, published in the journal Breast Cancer Research and Treatment, revealed that black women in Brazil are diagnosed at more advanced stages of the disease and have three times higher mortality rates compared to white women. In the United States, breast cancer mortality is 40% higher among black women, showing that racial inequality is a global phenomenon.

During Cura Talks Breast, Dr. Ana Amélia Viana, clinical oncologist and coordinator of the Diversity Committee of the Brazilian Society of Clinical Oncology (SBOC), emphasized that access barriers and lack of representation in clinical research significantly hinder the journey of black women seeking early diagnosis and appropriate treatment. “To change this scenario, it is essential that clinical research be more inclusive and reflect the diversity of the Brazilian population,” he said.

Check out the content on the Drauzio Varella Portal by clicking on the link: https://drauziovarella.uol.com.br/oncologia/cancer-de-mama-mulheres-negras-enfrentam-desigualdades-no-diagnostico-e-tratamento-da-doenca/

‍

Global perspective on equity and scientific advances: challenges and paths

Dr. Carlos Barrios, an oncologist, director of the Latin American Oncology Clinical Research Group (LACOG) and researcher at the Oncoclinics Group and São Lucas Hospital of PUC-RS, also participated in the Cura Talks Breast Gramado, making fundamental contributions in the field of clinical research. Dr. Barrios is a mentor and constant presence at the events of the CURA Project Institute, collaborating for significant advances in the area of Oncology and made his contribution on the subject:

The evolution of the human being in social interactions has provided formidable advances in several areas. Innovative technologies, which allow better disease control, development of new drugs and increased food production, have contributed to a significant increase in life expectancy and quality of life. We live longer and better, reflecting collective efforts in science, technology, and global cooperation.

However, it is impossible to ignore that the benefits of these advances are not evenly distributed. Discrepancies in access to and availability of essential resources represent a universal challenge and result in marked inequalities between different countries and, often, even between regions of the same country. Ethnic and racial minorities, and stigmatized social groups are often left on the sidelines, being deprived of full participation in advances that should benefit everyone.

This scenario not only affects minorities, but also large portions of the world's population that live outside of privileged regions, where access to cutting-edge technologies and basic care is still a distant luxury. Thus, inequity, more than a specific problem, has become a structural feature that defines our global society.

Recognizing this reality is the first step in seeking change. However, it is essential to avoid simplifications. Inequalities have multiple dimensions, and to propose definitive diagnoses or unique solutions would be naive. The approach must be individualized and contextualized. Each of us can identify the inequities around us and act locally, seeking to solve small challenges that, together, have the potential to create significant transformations.

In the area of clinical research, particularly in the field of oncology in Brazil, there is a growing effort to include historically underserved populations. The medical community, through initiatives such as the Cura Project and LACOG, works with a clear purpose: to design and conduct studies that address crucial issues for everyone, especially for minorities and marginalized populations. The commitment goes beyond generating knowledge; it is creating transformative solutions that impact lives in a broad and inclusive way.

This task, however, is complex and cannot be performed in isolation. It requires the active collaboration of various segments of society. Building a culture of cooperation, where each individual, institution, and sector contributes according to their capacity, is essential. Only by joining efforts will we be able to move towards a more just and egalitarian world.

The Cura Project and LACOG are concrete examples of this vision. These platforms provide opportunities for the active participation of all stakeholders, promoting inclusion and mobilization around a common goal: reducing health inequalities and ensuring that advances in science truly benefit everyone. Supporting these initiatives is investing in building a more equitable society, driven by the dream, dedication, and leadership of committed volunteers.

Working together, with solidarity and purpose, is the path to achieving a more just and promising future for all humanity.

‍

The role of the CURA Project Institute

Dr. Heloisa Resende, president of the Scientific Committee of the CURA Project Institute, reinforced the organization's commitment to promote clinical research that provides answers relevant to oncology. “The CURA Institute works in three main areas: education and awareness for the lay public about the benefits of research and the rights of participants; debates with opinion leaders to identify obstacles to clinical research; and fundraising for academic projects.”

An example is the Impact of Extreme Social Vulnerability & Breast Cancer Study: a population-based study in Brazil, led by Dr. Max Mano and supported by the CURA Project Institute. This project aims to analyze the impact of social factors on breast cancer treatment outcomes in Brazil, helping doctors to better understand the particularities of their patients and their social contexts.

‍

Impact and mobilization

Racial inequality in breast cancer is a reflection of the historical barriers faced by the black population in Brazil, which include lower access to health, late diagnoses, and less effective treatments. Cura Talks Breast proved to be an essential event to promote discussions about solutions that can change this scenario, in addition to reinforcing the importance of including black women in clinical studies.

By bringing together experts and fostering constructive debates, the CURA Project Institute reaffirms its commitment to reducing inequalities and building a more just and egalitarian future for all women.

‍