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Engaging the Community in Vital Cancer Discussions

From September to November 2026, the Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute is set to continue its impactful Community Conversations on Cancer series. This initiative aims to provide residents of Michigan with an opportunity to engage directly with research experts and physicians, promoting a more profound understanding of current cancer care practices and advancements.

In partnership with the Detroit Public Library, these seminars are a beacon of hope and knowledge for those affected by cancer. The free sessions will take place both in person at the Main Library located at 5201 Woodward Avenue, Detroit, MI 48202, and virtually via Zoom. This dual approach ensures that attendees from across Michigan can benefit from the insights shared during these valuable discussions.

What to Expect from the Upcoming Sessions

The next few months promise to be enlightening, as the series covers crucial topics such as disparities in breast cancer research, the complexities of triple-negative breast cancer, and the intersection of cancer immunotherapy and genetics.

• - Same Diagnosis, Different Outcomes: Exploring Breast Cancer Disparities - Kicking off on September 9, Dr. Kirsten Purrington will explore why Black women with hormone-sensitive breast cancer experience worse outcomes than their White counterparts. By analyzing patient data alongside molecular biology, she aims to pave the way for more personalized breast cancer treatments. Dr. Purrington emphasizes the importance of community feedback in her research, highlighting the real-world implications of her work.

• - The Road Ahead: Understanding Triple Negative Breast Cancer - On October 21, Dr. Hadeel Assad will discuss the specific challenges faced by patients diagnosed with this aggressive form of breast cancer. With a commitment to translating research into practical knowledge for patients, Dr. Assad will share insights on current treatment options. Accompanied by Dr. Hasan Korkaya, the discussion will also touch on how non-human models are used to understand the disease further. Both experts aim to instill hope by highlighting recent progress in treating high-risk patients.

• - Cancer Immunotherapy and Genetics: A Personalized Medicine Approach - Wrapping up the series on November 18, Dr. Heather Gibson will delve into the advances in immunotherapy, focusing on how genetic factors influence individual responses to treatment. This session will also explore how cutting-edge technology enables researchers to examine tumors at a single-cell level, taking personalized medicine to new heights. Dr. Gibson believes that a focus on genetics can lead to a future with improved health equity in cancer treatment strategies.

The Role of Community Engagement

Hayley Thompson, Ph.D., a leading figure in the Karmanos outreach initiative, expresses excitement about the series, noting the insightful questions posed by attendees. These conversations are designed not just to inform but also to inspire greater involvement in cancer research efforts.

"The knowledge gained here is meant to travel beyond the library and into the homes of our attendees, encouraging discussions within their families and communities," Dr. Thompson stated. "We want to spark a deeper interest in cancer research initiatives and operationalize the insights shared into actionable advocacy."

Through this collaboration, both Karmanos and the Detroit Public Library aim to empower community members with valuable cancer prevention and care information, fulfilling their mission to enhance the quality of life for residents.

Attendance for these events requires prior registration, whether in person or online. For more details and to secure a spot, interested participants should visit karmanos.org/COE or call 313-576-8911.

About the Partners

The Karmanos Cancer Institute stands as a leader in cancer care and research. Aiming for a world without cancer, Karmanos has dedicated over 75 years to impactful research and clinical excellence. Meanwhile, the Detroit Public Library provides essential educational resources for community members, making it a cornerstone of public engagement and learning throughout Michigan.

Conclusion

This Community Conversations series represents a significant step in bridging the gap between cancer research and community awareness, highlighting the importance of informed discussions and the collective input of both patients and healthcare professionals in shaping the future of cancer care. Join Karmanos this fall to be part of these vital conversations!