Search for a command to run...
Abstract BACKGROUND: In recent years, TNBC has transformed from a difficult-to-treat malignancy with few effective treatment options into an active area of research, where new treatments are emerging each year. As novel treatments are established in advanced disease settings, and the focus of research turns to improving options in earlier stages of disease, it is important that oncologists remain up to date on the current and future care of patients with TNBC. This is particularly important for Hispanic and Latina patients, who face numerous disparities in treatment access and quality of care. A tethered educational initiative was designed to ensure that clinicians and patients/caregivers stay up-to-date on current and emerging TNBC treatments, disparities in Hispanic/Latina populations, and strategies to improve quality of care. METHODS: Two, interactive, video-based programs were designed for patients/caregivers, and clinicians in collaboration with Surviving Breast Cancer and Salud America. The programs were hosted on Medlive.com from April 2024 to June 2025. Patients were interviewed and their real-world stories embedded within the program. We report on an analysis of patient outcomes and the intersection of patient and clinician perspectives, including behavioral impact, and qualitative insights. RESULTS: To date, more than 2,273 clinicians have engaged with the education program and over 70,000 views via social media of the patient/caregiver program. Of participating patients/caregivers, 80% were non-White (50% Hispanic/Latina) and 78% were people diagnosed with breast cancer, 22% of whom had TNBC. Following the program, 82% felt confident discussing a treatment plan with their healthcare team, and 71% were likely to consider participating in a clinical trial. Qualitative data elucidating specific intended changes and patient experiences will be shared. Patients/caregivers prioritized community-centric resources more than HCPs recognized. Ethnicity-specific barriers were felt more strongly by patients. Of the participants in the clinician program, 80% were physicians, 76% of whom noted their specialty as oncology. Increased recognition (42%) of ADCs as the preferred second-line option for biomarker-negative TNBC, reflected by a rise in ADC selection post-activity. Improved understanding (47%) of immune checkpoint inhibitor toxicities, though some learners may still underestimate long-term endocrine-related side effects. Modest gains in awareness of racial disparities in TNBC, suggesting clinicians recognize inequities but may need further education on actionable solutions. CONCLUSIONS: The disparities highlight the importance of culturally attuned approaches that extend education and support to familial/social networks, which are often critical for patients from Hispanic and Latina populations. Ethnicity-specific barriers highlights a disconnect in recognizing the importance of peer representation and cultural similarity within support networks, which can greatly affect patient comfort and outcomes. These findings underscore a notable disconnect between what patients/caregivers prioritize and what clinicians perceive as their challenges. Patients tend to emphasize the importance of community and cultural representation in support systems, while HCPs focus on logistical barriers, such as language services. Bridging this gap requires a dual focus: addressing systemic barriers while fostering culturally tailored support networks that resonate with patients’ lived experiences. Support was provided by an independent educational grant from Gilead Sciences, Inc. Citation Format: T. Ackbarali, L. Braithwaite, C. Tellez, S. Tolaney. Centering the Patient Experience within TNBC Care and Fostering Equity in the Hispanic and Latina Populations [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium 2025; 2025 Dec 9-12; San Antonio, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Clin Cancer Res 2026;32(4 Suppl):Abstract nr PS2-02-25.
Published in: Clinical Cancer Research
Volume 32, Issue 4_Supplement, pp. PS2-02