Judith A. Salerno, MD, MS, president, CEO, Susan G. Komen, comments on donations to breast cancer research.

Komen currently supports 54 distinguished researchers and encourages them to tell the story of what they do to aid progress towards better prevention and treatment of breast cancer.

Komen asks their scholars to work with their affiliates and communities to make the science of their research more accessible to an average person. An average person will understand the need to give money to help patients directly with treatment, transportation, wigs, and mammograms, but he or she may not understand the importance of funding for scientists.

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Dr. Salerno on Donations to Breast Cancer Research

Judith A. Salerno, MD, MS, president, CEO, Susan G. Komen, discusses access to care for patients with breast cancer.

Beyond research, huge gaps exist in access to care and support for women who are screened and diagnosed with breast cancer. Contrary to the beliefs of some, Salerno says, the Affordable Care Act will not lead to every person in the country receiving health insurance. Further, just because a patient does have health insurance, it does not necessarily mean that he or she has the transportation means to get to treatment or can afford a copayment.

Philanthropic organizations are doing an incredible amount regarding getting patients access to care, though much more needs to be done.

Dr. Salerno on Access to Care for Breast Cancer Patients

Judith A. Salerno, MD, MS, president, CEO, Susan G. Komen, discusses federal funding for research and the importance of gaining funds though private philanthropy to support clinical researchers.

Salerno believes that federal funding for research is not going to grow. As a result, investigators will not be able to support as many people in their labs or conduct a high level of research.

Salerno says it must be ensured that the pipeline of researchers continues to grow and that potential researchers are supported as they finish their graduate programs or residences. Currently, Salerno says, many researchers find it difficult to balance work and family life and end up leaving the field.

Judith A. Salerno, MD, MS

Articles

Dr. Salerno on Donations to Breast Cancer Research

Dr. Salerno on Access to Care for Breast Cancer Patients

Dr. Salerno on the Importance of Clinical Researchers