CNN anchor Sara Sidner shared at the TIME100 Health Impact Dinner that she underwent 16 chemotherapy rounds while continuing to work after her stage III breast cancer diagnosis in 2023, a statement met with enthusiastic applause.
Sidner emphasized the ability to maintain one’s life during cancer treatment, expressing gratitude to nurses, doctors, researchers, and drug developers for their essential work and research.
Sidner joined Dr. Vinod Balachandran, from Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, and Victor Bulto, from Novartis, the event’s sponsor, on a panel led by TIME’s Alice Park. They discussed advancements in cancer detection, treatment, and prevention, as well as ongoing research needs.
Sidner mentioned that initially, she hadn’t intended to share her cancer diagnosis publicly. However, upon learning about her stage III breast cancer, she felt compelled to share her experiences honestly, including the difficult aspects.
Balachandran described cancer as a critical health challenge, noting that statistics indicate a high likelihood of cancer diagnosis for men and women in the U.S.
He explained that cancer’s adaptability poses a significant challenge. Current treatments often fail to keep pace with cancer’s evolution.
Balachandran highlighted the progress in developing more sophisticated cancer treatments, including the use of AI and a deeper understanding of the immune system. These advancements could lead to earlier diagnoses and more effective treatments. He has been using personalized vaccines to potentially strengthen patients’ immune systems against pancreatic cancer, which is known as a deadly cancer in the U.S.
Bulto stressed the importance of improving both the science and the patient experience.
Bulto emphasized that advancements in cancer treatment should be accessible to all patients, regardless of their location.
Despite previous budget cuts, Balachandran remains optimistic about the future of cancer treatment.
He asserted that the momentum of transformative progress in cancer care is difficult to stop, warranting continued support due to cancer’s widespread impact.
Park concluded the discussion by asking the panelists if a cancer cure was within reach.
Balachandran responded affirmatively, stating that cancer is already being cured. The focus now is on improving the effectiveness, simplicity, and accessibility of these cures, while minimizing side effects.
He emphasized the need to broaden access to treatments and reduce side effects.
Sidner and Bulto agreed with Balachandran, with Sidner highlighting the need for equitable cancer cures, noting the disproportionately high mortality rate among Black women with breast cancer.
Sidner emphasized the urgent need to address disparities in cancer outcomes.
The TIME100 Impact Dinner: Leaders Shaping the Future of Health was sponsored by Novartis and FIGS.
