Ysabel Duron

Journalist, Cancer Survivor, Patient Advocate

FOUNDER/EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
The Latino Cancer Institute
San Jose, CA

Cancer doesn’t discriminate, but our healthcare system often does. It’s our job to change that.

— Ysabel Duron

Championing Latino Cancer Awareness and Health Equity

Ysabel Duron, founder of The Latino Cancer Institute (TLCI), brings over four decades of experience in journalism and cancer advocacy to her mission of improving health outcomes for the Latino community. Her work bridges the gap between healthcare systems and underserved populations, driving change through education, advocacy, and policy influence.

Current Initiatives and Impact

• Friday Forum Series: Duron leads TLCI’s innovative 6-part series, “Talking about cancer won’t kill us, the silence will!” This program fosters crucial dialogues on cancer prevention, treatment, and support within the Latino community.
• National Advisory Roles: Appointed by President Joe Biden to the National Cancer Advisory Board in February 2023, Duron brings a vital patient advocate perspective to national cancer research and policy discussions. She serves as one of the few patient advocates on the Board.
• Policy Shaping: Duron serves on several influential boards:
  • Institutional Review Board (IRB) for the NIH’s All of Us Research Program at the National Institutes of Health; invited to join in 2016 by former NIH Director Francis Collins, as a patient advocate. 
  • Independent Citizen’s Oversight Committee for the California Institute for Regenerative Medicine (CIRM), where she spearheaded a motion requiring COVID clinical trial proposals to include plans for recruiting racial and ethnic minorities
  • University of California Center for Data Drive Insights and Innovation

Upcoming Engagements

Duron is actively involved in high-profile cancer awareness and advocacy events.

• Panelist for the FDA Oncology Center of Excellence (OCE) Conversation on Cancer, September 2024, kicking of National Hispanic Family Cancer Awareness Week, September 20-26th
• Host of TLCI’s innovative 6-part all virtual Friday Forum series, “Talking about cancer won’t kill us, the silence will!”
• Speaker at the Advancing Precision Medicine (APM) conference, November 2024

The Birth of a Mission

Duron’s journey from award-winning journalist to cancer advocate began with her own diagnosis in 1999. This personal experience transformed her career, leading her to establish Latinas Contra Cancer in 2003 and later, The Latino Cancer Institute in 2017. Her inspiring journey has been featured in AARP, Co-generate, and other major news outlets, highlighting the power of personal experience in driving systemic change.

Connect. Convene. Advocate — A Mantra/Motto to Guide Us

Ysabel Duron launched The Latino Cancer Institute (TLCI) to amplify Latino voices about the cancer burden — acting as a force multiplier through a nationwide network of stakeholders; dedicated to promote the work of Latino community service agencies; to provide collaboration with the global cancer research community; and to drive policy to improve health outcomes and diminish disproportionate Latino cancer mortality.

Through The Institute, Duron has hosted national forums to bring together researchers, clinicians, advocates, government and industry officials across the cancer landscape. In 2023, TLCI hosted The 5th annual Forum, “The Turbulent Ecosystem: Climate Change’s Impact on the Latino Cancer Burden.”

TLCI’s collaborations include engagements with academic partners such as the Stanford Cancer Institute, Universities of California at San Francisco and Davis, Georgetown University Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, George Washington Cancer Center, the California Primary Care Association (FQHCs), San Diego and San Jose State Universities.

A Legacy of Impact

• Founded Latinas Contra Cancer (2003-2016), developing groundbreaking programs for low-income, Spanish-speaking communities
• Established The Latino Cancer Institute (2017), a nationwide network amplifying Latino voices in cancer advocacy
• Garnered White House recognition and fostered collaborations with leading academic and healthcare institutions

Published Works

Duron has contributed to numerous research papers and publications, including:

• Co-author, “Critical Reflections on This Historical Moment for Community-engaged and Participatory Research,” Progress in Community Health Partnerships (2023)
• [Additional notable publications to be listed here]

Recognition and Awards

A 1970 graduate of San Jose State University with a B.A. in Journalism, Duron distinguished herself in both the journalism and nonprofit worlds winning a number of prestigious awards. These include two Emmys, a Radio-TV News Director Award, the Girl Scouts Juliette Gordon Award for her Trouble with Teacher Series, the Silicon Valley NAACP Chapter W.E.B. Dubois Award, as well as—

• MM&M’s 2024 Healthcare Influencers
• 2024 Latinx Business Leadership Awards, Individual Honoree
• Purpose Prize from ENCORE, 2013
• The 2011 Latino Spirit Award from the Latino Caucus of the California Legislature.
• National Association of Hispanic Journalists Hall of Fame, Inducted 2009
• the 2005 Bay Area Most Influential Latino from the SF Business Times
• A Lifetime Achievement Award from the International Women’s Media Association
• Living Legacy Award from the Chicana- Latina Foundation

In Her Own Words: Favorite Quotes

Ysabel often draws inspiration from these powerful words:

1. “Preservation of one’s own culture does not require contempt or disrespect for other cultures.” – Cesar Chavez
2. “Every moment is an organizing opportunity, every person a potential activist, every minute a chance to change the world.” – Dolores Huerta
3. Nothing is impossible, the word itself says ‘I’m possible’! – Audrey Hepburn
4. “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has.” – Margaret Mead
5. “Helping one cancer patient at a time is crucial, but to truly make a difference, we need to address the systemic, structural causes of cancer disparities in the Latino community” – Ysabel Duron
6. The only failure is in not trying! – Ysabel Duron

What’s on Ysabel’s Watchlist

When she’s not advocating for healthcare equity, you might find Ysabel enjoying:

1. Documentaries on social justice and healthcare
2. “The Emperor of All Maladies” by Siddhartha Mukherjee
3. TED Talks on innovative approaches to public health
4. [Add one or two more items that reflect YOUR interests]

Get Involved

Join Ysabel Duron and TLCI in the fight against cancer disparities. Visit our [Programs page/The Ask or maybe link to blog post encouraging advocacy, etc] to learn about our initiatives and how you can contribute to this vital work. [LINK TO SIGN UP OR DONATE]

To reach Ysabel Duron: office@latinocancerinstitute.org
Yd/08/26/2024 /updated 

TLCI Blog by Ysabel Duron, President/Executive Director

03 Sep, 2024

A September to Remember: Amplifying Latino Voices in Cancer Awareness

As I look ahead to this September, which commemorates Hispanic Heritage Month, I’m filled with a mix of excitement and determination. This month also marks a significant moment in our ongoing fight against cancer in the Latino community, and I’m honored to be part of two crucial initiatives that have the potential to create lasting change.

But before I dive into the details, I need to share some sobering facts with you:

One in three Latinos will be diagnosed with cancer in their lifetimes. And cancer is the number one cause of death among Latinos.

Let that sink in for a moment. These aren’t just statistics – they represent our families, our friends, our communities. They represent us. And they’re the reason why the work we’re doing is so vital.

Joining Forces with the FDA

On September 20th, I’ll be participating in the FDA’s “Conversations on Cancer” panel as part of their inaugural National Hispanic Family Cancer Awareness Week. This event is more than just a discussion – it’s a call to action.

For years, I’ve witnessed firsthand the disparities our community faces in cancer care. From higher rates of certain cancers to lower participation in clinical trials, the challenges are real and pressing. This FDA initiative is a step towards addressing these issues head-on, with a panel of Latino experts, and I’m eager to bring our community’s voice to the table.

Launching TLCI’s Friday Forum Series

But our work doesn’t stop there. Immediately following the FDA panel, I’ll be kicking off The Latino Cancer Institute’s new Friday Forum Series. This series, titled “Talking about Cancer Won’t Kill Us, the Silence Will,” is incredibly close to my heart.

As a cancer survivor myself, I know the power of open, honest conversations about this disease. Our six-part series will tackle critical issues ranging from genetic factors in blood cancers to the role of AI in healthcare. We’re bringing together experts, advocates, and community leaders to spark dialogues that can lead to real change.

Why This Matters

You might wonder why we’re putting so much emphasis on these events. The answer is in those statistics I shared earlier. One in three of us will be diagnosed with cancer in our lifetime. And with Latino cancer cases projected to increase by 142%, according to the American Cancer Society, we need to step up. By increasing awareness, promoting early detection, and encouraging participation in research, we can change these numbers. We can change our future.

Your Role

As we embark on this journey, I invite you – yes, you – to be part of this change. Attend the FDA’s virtual events. Join our Friday Forums. Share what you learn with your family and friends. Ask questions. Demand better care. Your voice matters in this fight.

Remember, #LatinePuede! We can do this, but only if we do it together.

Will you join me this September in breaking the silence and taking charge of our health? Let’s make this a September to remember – for all the right reasons.

Click Here to Register for the FDA events

Click Here to Register for TLCI’s Friday Forum Series

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08 Mar, 2024

Celebrate International Women’s Day: Equity in Healthcare

Celebrating International Women’s Day and A Women’s Right to Survive and Thrive

 

As I head to SXSW 2024 in Austin, one of the biggest gatherings of innovators, thought leaders, and world-class artists, this Friday I want to celebrate International Women’s Day by spotlighting the strength and resilience of women everywhere.  

 

I’ll be joining our host The City of Hope and Dr. Harlan Levine in conversation about Cancer Innovation and Those Who Are Left Behind.    The Latino Cancer Institute is a woman-built, mostly women-driven national non-profit dedicated to diminishing Latino cancer risk wherever we have the opportunity to make a difference. Our work to equalize access to quality cancer care for vulnerable populations, especially women and Latinas, is critical to our mission. 

 

Women are not only essential breadwinners and caregivers for their families, but they are also the critical backbone for the economic well-being of all countries. Yet, in many places, they continue to struggle for equal pay compared to their white male counterparts. 

 

Health is wealth, and if women are not in an economic position to afford their own healthcare and essential regular cancer screenings that lead to early intervention and better survival outcomes, then their families will also suffer should a beloved mother, sister, auntie or grandmother lose her life. 

Breast cancer is the leading cause of cancer incidence and death among Latinas in the U.S. They deserve equal and affordable access to advanced diagnostics, such as genetic and genomic testing, as well as quality early intervention and treatment, which can save lives and reduce costs.  

On this International Women’s Day, let’s not just celebrate women, but let’s also guarantee each and every one access to the tools and resources they need to survive, thrive, and make their mark wherever they live. #InspireInclusion  

 

(https://www.internationalwomensday.com/Missions/20202/What-does-it-mean-to-truly-inspire-inclusion) 

 

If you happen to be heading for SXSW, join us and we’ll keep the conversation going. 

 

Cancer Innovation and Those Who are Left Behind, SXSW 2024 

Mar 11, 2024, 4:00pm – 5:00pm CT 

https://schedule.sxsw.com/2024/events/PP141331 

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06 Feb, 2024

TLCI 2023 Forum – Action Items & Policy

Thank you to those of you who attended The Latino Cancer Institute’s 5th Annual National Forum, The Turbulent Ecosystem: Climate Change and its Impact on the Latino Cancer Burden!

During the forum, we heard from distinguished researchers, policy-makers, clinicians, and advocates about the intersection between climate change and cancer, and specifically how it affects Latino communities. The presenters offered valuable action items that everyone can take to mitigate the negative health impacts of climate change. From businesses to governments, researchers to hospitals and clinics, community-based organizations, and community members themselves, we all have a role to play in protecting our most vulnerable populations from the toll that climate change is taking. Let’s work together to improve the health of our world, our communities, and ourselves.

Watch the forum video here

Here is the link to our most recent email about this

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