Call for Speakers: YSC Summit 2026 — New Orleans, March 6–8

Young Survival Coalition (YSC) invites proposals for science-driven and wellness sessions for our 2026 YSC Summit in New Orleans (March 6–8, 2026). We’re seeking engaging, evidence-based content that centers people diagnosed with breast cancer at a young age—including those living with MBC—and equips them, their supporters, and providers with practical, actionable takeaways.

Submission deadline: December 12, 2025 12PM ET

What We’re Looking For (Science-Driven Topics)

We welcome proposals from clinicians, researchers, and allied health professionals for sessions that translate the latest evidence into plain-language guidance. Suggested areas include (but aren’t limited to):

1. Evolving choices in MBC care (sequencing, de-escalation/escalation, treatment algorithms)
2. Precision oncology & genomics (biomarkers, molecular profiling, liquid biopsy)
3. Clinical trials (designs, access, equity, and “how to” for finding/enrolling)
4. Toxicity management & supportive care (cardio-oncology, neuropathy, bone health, sexual health, menopause management, cognitive effects)
5. Brain, bone, and visceral metastases (radiation, surgery, systemic options, symptom control)
6. Shared decision making (provider-led frameworks that honor patient goals/values)
7. Disparities & equity (race, age, rurality, insurance, LGBTQ+ health, language access)
8. Fertility, family-building & parenting with MBC
9. Imaging & surveillance (what, when, why)
10. Palliative care integration & serious-illness communication
11. Financial toxicity & navigation
12. Emerging tools & tech (AI/ML in oncology, digital symptom tracking, PROs)

Wellness Proposals (Unique + Evidence-Informed)

We also seek wellness sessions that are trauma-informed, inclusive, and adaptable to varied abilities. Surprise us with your unique approach—please share credentials and any supporting evidence. Examples:

1. Yoga (mat/chair), mindful movement, breathwork, somatic stress relief
2. Sleep skills, fatigue management, pain self-management techniques
3. Creative arts, journaling, music/sound-based practices
4. Sexual health & intimacy, body image, pelvic health
5. Nutrition myth-busting & practical strategies (aligned with current evidence)
6. Caregiver/co-survivor skill-building

Session Format & Expectations

1. Length: 45–60 minutes total, including time for Q&A.
2. Design: Interactive, plain-language, and culturally responsive; include 2–3 concrete takeaways and resources.
3. Accessibility: Use inclusive language and slide accessibility best practices.
4. Disclosures: COI disclosure required.

Who Should Apply

1. Medical oncologists, surgeons, radiation oncologists, APPs, RNs, SWs, PT/OT, dietitians, sex therapists, psychologists, palliative/supportive care, researchers, and community partners.
2. We welcome co-presentations that pair clinical expertise with lived experience.

What to Submit (Application Checklist)

Please be ready to provide:

1. Session title and a 150–250 word abstract (plain-language)
2. Intended audience (e.g., MBC, newly diagnosed, caregivers, providers)
3. Relevance & evidence (key citations or guideline anchors for science topics; credentials/evidence basis for wellness)

Selection & Notification

Proposals are reviewed for scientific rigor or evidence-informed practice, clarity, audience fit, diversity of perspectives, and practicality of takeaways.

1. Notification: If selected, you will be notified on or before December 19, 2025.
2. Important: Due to volume, only selected speakers will be contacted.

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