Explore the evolution of breast cancer research in this insightful episode, where science, persistence, and innovation converge. We trace the journey of HER2-positive breast cancer from one of the most challenging diagnoses to a model of therapeutic success, highlighting the groundbreaking development of trastuzumab despite early skepticism. The conversation then turns to next-generation therapies like antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs), examining both their promise and emerging safety considerations, including unexpected systemic toxicities.We also dive into how researchers are redefining target discovery, using ADCs as a “Trojan horse” to expand treatment possibilities beyond traditional oncogenes. The episode unpacks key lessons from CDK4/6 inhibitor development, emphasizing the value of unbiased discovery methods and longer-term assays. Finally, we discuss optimizing dosing strategies to improve patient quality of life and the critical role of mentorship in shaping the next generation of scientific leaders and advancing future breakthroughs.

Presented at: New Orleans Summer Cancer Meeting 20th Anniversary Conference

Chairman: Edgardo S. Santos Castillero, MD, FACP, FASCO

Prostate Cancer: Early and Locally Advanced Disease

Ulka Vaishampayan, MD | University of Michigan

Dr. Ulka Vaishampayan discussed early and locally advanced prostate cancer, noting 192,000 new U.S.cases yearly. Key biomarkers include PSA, imaging, and genomics. High-risk cases may need surgery, radiation, or hormone therapy. Tools like Decipher and Artera AI aid decisions. Multidisciplinary care is key.

Presented at: Specialty Pharmaceutical Summit 2025 SPS Puerto Rico

Summit Directors:

Jorge J. Garcia, PharmD, MS, MHA, MBA, FACCC, FACHE | Baptist Health South Florida

Bhavesh Shah, RPh, BCOP | Boston Medical Center

Specialty Pharmaceuticals | The Payer Perspective

Moderator: Jorge J. Garcia, PharmD, MS, MHA, MBA, FACCC,FACHE | Baptist Health South Florida

Panel: Iris L. Morant Rodriguez, BS Pharm, RPh | MSO Puerto Rico; Gladiany Ramos-Marrero, PharmD, RPh, CSP | MCS Puerto Rico; Nury Toledo Nunez, PharmD | SSS HealthPuerto Rico

The panel explored Puerto Rico’s healthcare landscape, noting heavy reliance on Triple S, MMM, and MCs, with a$5.8 billion 2025 budget dominated by Medicare and oncology costs. Key challenges include underfunding, specialty drug management, and the need for stakeholder collaboration, biosimilars, and AI integration to improve outcomes.