What Survivors Of Lung Cancer Can Teach Us About The Power Of Voice

The 2025 STEMM & Cancer Health Equity (SCHEQ) Lung Cancer Interventions Summit held in Chicago concentrated on a pivotal objective: eliminating barriers and enhancing outcomes for all individuals impacted by lung cancer. By uniting patients, healthcare providers, and researchers, the summit sought to dismantle communication silos and foster a robust community centered on advocacy and survivorship.A standout session titled "Patient Perspectives on Lung Cancer and Lessons Learned" was moderated by Angela James from the LUNGevity Foundation, featuring four inspiring survivors—Juanita Segura, Ruby Blow, Natalie Brown, and Dave Bjork—who shared their experiences, emphasizing areas in need of improvement in the healthcare system.Key insights from the panel included the necessity for comprehensive biomarker testing, the importance of self-advocacy, the invaluable support from the patient community, and the critical nature of supportive care in cancer treatment. They also urged attendees to confront the stigma surrounding lung cancer, which affects diagnosis, treatment accessibility, and public perceptions.