Abstract 629: Providing a safe space for our diverse vulnerable populations to talk about their health concerns across the continuum of cancer care: Lazarex Cancer Wellness HUB pop-up model
Authors: Elena Nieves, Rosa Barahona, Marya Shegog, Dana Dornsife, Lourdes A. Baezconde-Garbanati
Journal: Cancer Research (2025)

Background: The Lazarex Cancer Foundation, in collaboration with USC established the Lazarex Cancer Wellness HUBs pop-up model to provide a welcoming and safe space embracing the cultural and unique cancer challenges of communities that we serve, our diverse populations. A major part of cancer health equity means providing a space representative of the people we serve so we meet them where they are while providing information in a culturally sensitive and language specific way. The HUB offers equitable access to cancer programs and support that could help achieve better results from prevention through treatment and survivorship. Methods: Between Oct 2021 to July 2024 our HUB has conducted outreach in several YMCAs across LA County with other community-based organizations and churches. We supported community events such as Black Men’s Wellness Day, Taste of Soul, and the San Gabriel Lunar Lantern Festival. A series of mindfulness workshops provide interventions that help develop emotional balance and find greater calm and control in the daily lives of those affected by cancer. Our speaker series, facilitated by scientists and invited guest speakers have provided community members with current scientific discoveries including robust overview of cancer, cancer treatment and opportunities available. Results: Over 8,000+ individuals have received cancer information. Majority have identified as women (over 70%) representing different race/ethnicity designations. Most indicated some level of health insurance with about 50% having a government supported plan. About half shared they received a pre-high school or high school education. Moreover, over 2,000 community members have attended our speaker series that discussed topics such as Oral Care for Cancer Patients, At Your Cervix: How the Pap Smear Helps Prevent and Detect Cancer, LGBTQI+ Identity, Screening, and Risk Factors, and Liver and Hepatitis Cancer. 52 members attended mindfulness workshops that were engaged in mind-body health practices. Finally, a one-day in-person event where 92 community members attended and learned about “The Future in Cancer Therapy: From Participant Engagement to Scientific Discovery” brought together cancer research experts to immerse the community in knowledge. Conclusion: We created a community outreach approach that allows to be present and visible in our diverse communities in LA County with information tailored culturally and locally. Education and connection to cancer support services are provided to help equip everyone in their cancer journey before, during and beyond. Information provided include cancer screening guidelines, the importance of diversity participation in cancer clinical trials, self or patient advocacy, and access to sources. The actions we are take allow us to help reduce cancer disparities. Citation Format: Elena Nieves, Rosa Barahona, Marya Shegog, Dana Dornsife, Lourdes A. Baezconde-Garbanati. Providing a safe space for our diverse vulnerable populations to talk about their health concerns across the continuum of cancer care: Lazarex Cancer Wellness HUB pop-up model [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2025; Part 1 (Regular Abstracts); 2025 Apr 25-30; Chicago, IL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2025;85(8_Suppl_1):Abstract nr 629.