Community Impact of Breast Cancer Spotlight

Evaluating a multi-component oncofertility care intervention for rural young breast cancer survivors

PIs: Hui-Chun Su, UC San Diego & Helen Palomino, Cancer Resource Center of the Desert

Many young breast cancer survivors (YBCS) face fertility challenges, but resources to understand, treat and deal with these issues are limited, especially in rural areas. A team from UC San Diego partnered with the Cancer Resource Center of the Desert in California’s Imperial Valley to test a supportive, multi-part program to improve access to cancer-related, or oncofertility, care. The program included screening in clinics, patient navigation support, and telehealth consultations. Along the way, researchers worked closely with a Community Advisory Board and gathered feedback from patients and health care teams to refine their approach. As a result, they not only delivered helpful care but also developed strategies and tools to improve future implementation. Now, the program intervention will continue at El Centro Regional Medical Center, becoming part of ongoing care for YBCS in rural California. This research generated a publication in the journal Contemporary Clinical Trials.

Rural Latinas’ breast cancer narratives: Metaphor analysis as a window into cultural values

PIs: Dalia Magana UC Merced & Candice Adam-Medefind, Healthy House within a Match Coalition

How do cultural beliefs and metaphors shape a patient’s experience of breast cancer diagnosis? Partnering with Healthy House, UC Merced researchers worked closely with the community to bridge the gap between academic research and real-life experiences of Latina breast cancer survivors in medically underserved Merced County. By analyzing 20 video testimonies, the team identified 451 metaphors commonly used by survivors, with themes of journeys, religion, and emotions playing key roles. These findings were transformed into comics to make the research more accessible and shared at community events. Despite pandemic-related challenges, the project thrived, highlighting the need for more breast cancer support in the region. Looking ahead, the team hopes to expand their study, train medical residents on spirituality in cancer care, and improve cultural competence in healthcare. This work is making a real impact on how breast cancer is understood and supported in this community.