October marks Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and Impacto Media is conducting a series of interviews that explore the topic from a Latinx perspective—highlighting both healthcare professionals and patient experiences.
Clara Granda-Cameron, Associate Professor at the Jefferson College of Nursing in Philadelphia, is a leading voice in oncology nursing. Her career reflects deep dedication, perseverance, and a strong commitment to the Latino community.
Firmly convinced that prevention is the most powerful tool against cancer, Clara expresses concern that public resources are often directed more toward treatment than early detection.
For her, emotional support is just as vital as medical treatment. While some patients choose to continue with chemotherapy or radiation, others prioritize quality of life. “Our duty is to support them in whatever decision they make and accompany them throughout the entire process—from diagnosis to the end, if recovery is not possible,” she explains.
Clara emphasizes the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration: physicians, nurses, psychologists, nutritionists, and social workers working together to provide comprehensive care to patients and their families.
Committed to training future professionals, Clara is one of the organizers of an academic event focused on cancer care in Hispanic patients, to be held on November 1st at Thomas Jefferson University.
The meeting will bring together specialists and students from various health disciplines to address the unique challenges faced by the Latino community—from cultural and linguistic differences to socioeconomic and immigration-related barriers. The event will also feature academic presentations and poster sessions.
“We want future healthcare professionals to better understand the needs of Latino patients and to provide care that is more inclusive, respectful, and effective,” Clara affirms.
