The 3rd Annual African American Lung Cancer Patient & Caregiver Summit, hosted by HEAL Collaborative, is a groundbreaking national gathering dedicated to addressing the urgent challenges and persistent health disparities impacting Black communities facing lung cancer. Taking place April 23–25, 2026, in New Orleans, Louisiana, this year’s summit continues the powerful momentum built in Atlanta and Houston—bringing together patients, caregivers, healthcare professionals, researchers, advocates, and community leaders for three days of education, empowerment, and action.

Guided by our 2026 theme, “Restoring Hope Through Advancements in Lung Cancer Care, Treatments and the Voice of Communities,” the summit embodies HEAL’s mission to amplify patient and caregiver voices while spotlighting innovations in care, research, and advocacy that bring real solutions to those most impacted.

This year, the summit turns its focus to Louisiana—a state where the need for lung cancer awareness, early detection, and equitable care is especially urgent. Louisiana faces some of the highest lung cancer rates and lowest screening rates in the nation, and addressing these disparities is vital to saving lives and restoring hope in communities across the state.

Why Louisiana Matters

• A Leading Cause of Death: Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death in Louisiana, responsible for over 2,500 deaths annually. Many of these deaths are preventable through awareness, screening, and timely treatment.

• Low Screening Rates: Only 2.8% of eligible Louisianans are screened for lung cancer—one of the lowest rates in the U.S.—compared to the national average of 5.7%. Increasing education and outreach can significantly improve early detection and survival.

• Health Disparities: Black and Latino populations in Louisiana face worse outcomes due to lower screening, delayed diagnoses, and limited access to care. Focused education and community engagement are essential to closing these gaps.

• Economic and Family Impact: In 2018 alone, the medical and productivity costs of lung cancer in Louisiana were estimated at over $4 billion combined. Reducing this burden starts with prevention and education.

• Empowerment Through Knowledge: Education helps patients and caregivers understand the process of diagnosis and treatment—from interpreting test results to navigating follow-up care—empowering them to make informed decisions and advocate for their health.

Through main stage sessions, breakout discussions, and community activations, the Summit will explore how to overcome barriers to care, promote environmental and health equity, expand access to screenings, and build stronger systems of support.

More than a conference, the Summit is a space for hope, healing, and solutions—equipping attendees with the knowledge, tools, and networks they need to change the narrative of lung cancer in Black communities.

Together, we are restoring hope, advancing care, and strengthening the collective voice of our communities—because every breath matters and every voice deserves to be heard.

 

Take action and register now for the 3rd Annual AALCPC!