Advancing Health Equity Through Action: Reflections from the MaryAnn Black Health Equity Symposium

November is Lung Cancer Awareness Month - Screening Saves

In early February, the Screening Saves initiative had the honor of being selected to present data from its pilot program with ECU Health at the Duke Cancer Institute’s MaryAnn Black Distinguished Health Equity Symposium. The poster presentation highlighted early impacts of the program’s work to increase access to lung cancer screening—an essential step toward addressing persistent disparities in early detection. Presenting at this symposium during Black History Month underscored a powerful truth: health equity is not just a goal, but a responsibility.

The symposium centered on how health inequities influence cancer research, diagnosis, and treatment outcomes. This focus is especially critical in lung cancer, where disparities remain stark. According to the American Lung Association’s State of Lung Cancer 2025 report, Black individuals with lung cancer are 13% less likely to be diagnosed early, 19% less likely to receive surgical treatment, 11% more likely to receive no treatment at all, and 13% less likely to survive five years compared to white individuals. These statistics are more than numbers—they reflect systemic barriers that demand intentional, equity-driven solutions, like those being explored through the Screening Saves pilot. 

“This is about ensuring that advances in medicine reach the people who need them most. If we can do that, then we can save lives,” said Marvella E. Ford, PhD, Associate Director of Community Outreach and Engagement, Holling Cancer Center, Medical University of South Carolina.

Beyond the poster presentations, the symposium offered moments of inspiration and reflection. Attendees heard a powerful keynote from Mel Mann, the longest-living survivor treated with Gleevec and tyrosine kinase inhibitors, and an impactful panel featuring young cancer survivors who spoke candidly about life during and after treatment. A standout session on clinical trials—led by Duke thoracic oncologist Dr. Eziafa Oduah alongside two lung cancer survivors—reinforced the importance of representation, trust, and access in research, and demonstrated how inclusive clinical trials can directly translate into better outcomes.
Key takeaways from the symposium included:
  • Opportunities to connect with organizations committed to advancing health equity
  • The critical role of representation and diversity in clinical trials
  • The importance of supporting caregivers, especially those caring for young cancer survivors
  • The ongoing value of research in reducing cancer-related health disparities
  • The remarkable leadership of North Carolina institutions in cancer research and health equity

As we reflect during Black History Month, experiences like this symposium serve as a reminder that progress in cancer care requires both data and dialogue—and, most importantly, action. Through collaboration, research, and community-centered, hope-driven programs, we can continue moving toward a future where equitable cancer care is not the exception, but the standard.

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Dr. Marvella Ford is a valued member of our Early Detection Advisory Committee. We are so grateful for her insights and expertise.

Lung Screening Saves Lives