Honoring Progress and Hope During Breast Cancer Awareness Month

Each October, the California Biotechnology Foundation (CBF) joins millions across the nation in recognizing Breast Cancer Awareness Month—a time to honor survivors, remember those we’ve lost, and highlight the groundbreaking work of life science innovators who are transforming the fight against breast cancer.

As we recognize this important observance month CBF would also like to highlight the life-saving impact that scientific innovation and sound public policy have in the fight against one of the most prevalent cancers affecting women today.

According to the National Cancer Institute, nearly 317,000 women are expected to be diagnosed with breast cancer in 2025, and tragically, more than 42,000 lives will be lost. Breast cancer remains the most common cancer among women in the United States. While survival rates have steadily improved, disparities persist, especially in communities of color. Breast cancer outcomes remain disproportionately high for Black women, who face a 40 percent higher mortality rate than white women. These disparities underscore the importance of policies that expand access to early detection, equitable treatment, and participation in cutting-edge clinical research.

Encouragingly, life science companies and research institutions are driving new hope through innovation. Advances in genetic testing, biomarkers, and personalized medicine now make it possible to detect cancer risk earlier and tailor treatments to each patient’s own DNA. Targeted therapies and immunotherapies are improving survival rates, even for those with advanced disease, while next-generation breast cancer vaccines are currently in clinical trials and showing promising early results.

With over 90 FDA-approved treatments for breast cancer and several promising therapies in development, continued investment in biomedical research, clinical trials, and public-private collaboration is essential. Policymakers can help sustain this progress by supporting initiatives that strengthen research funding, protect patient access, and address persistent health inequities.

CBF proudly recognizes the extraordinary contributions of California’s life science community—and the vital work of organizations like Susan G. Komen,  Breast Cancer Research Foundation, National Breast Cancer Foundation, the American Cancer Society, and Carrie’s Touch which are helping ensure every woman has the chance to detect, treat, and beat breast cancer.

Shining a Light on Invisible Disabilities

Invisible Disabilities Week | October 19–25, 2025

This October, the California Biotechnology Foundation (CBF) joins the national movement in recognizing Invisible Disabilities Week, honoring the millions of Californians living with chronic health conditions that may not be outwardly visible but have a profound impact on daily life.

Invisible disabilities include a broad range of conditions—such as autoimmune disorders, neurological diseases, mental health conditions, chronic pain, and rare genetic syndromes. While these illnesses may not be immediately apparent, they often involve complex biological causes that require sustained medical innovation, early diagnosis, and equitable access to care.

California’s life sciences community is leading the way in this effort. Biopharmaceutical researchers and life science companies are developing novel diagnostics, digital health tools, and targeted therapies that help physicians detect invisible diseases earlier and personalize treatments to each patient’s unique biology. Advances in biomarker discovery, gene therapy, and neurotechnology are unlocking new understanding of how these conditions develop—and how they can be managed or even prevented.

Yet innovation must be paired with policy action. Legislators play a critical role in ensuring that patients have access to emerging treatments, clinical trials, and coverage for conditions that are often misunderstood or underrecognized. Expanding research funding, supporting patient education, and promoting inclusive workplace and insurance policies are essential steps toward equity for those living with invisible disabilities.

CBF proudly supports the partnerships between California researchers, health advocates, and policymakers that make such progress possible. Together, we can bring visibility, compassion, and scientific advancement to millions whose conditions are unseen—but whose needs are undeniable.

For more information, visit the Invisible Disabilities® Association.