SC Cancer Alliance: Advancing cancer care across South Carolina

By Karen Owens
Publisher

Cancer prevention, early detection, and comprehensive care require a unified approach. Earlier this year in April, healthcare providers, partners, and advocates gathered in Pawleys Island for the Waccamaw Regional Meeting of the South Carolina Cancer Alliance(opens in new tab). The gathering highlighted a deeply shared commitment across the healthcare ecosystem to ensure patients receive life-saving treatments, supportive resources, and compassionate care.

As the Alliance prepares for its upcoming 2026 SC Cancer Alliance Annual Meeting on September 17 in Columbia, looking back at the insights shared in Pawleys Island offers a clear roadmap of where cancer care stands in South Carolina and where strategic efforts are heading.

Progress and the Power of the SC Cancer Alliance

South Carolina has seen significant progress in cancer outcomes, with overall mortality rates decreasing steadily since 1989. However, the fight is far from over. With an average of 3,800 to 3,900 cancer cases diagnosed in the state each year—translating to roughly two deaths per day—the need for coordinated statewide action remains urgent.

The SC Cancer Alliance(opens in new tab) serves as a vital statewide convener, bringing together diverse organizations to align on education, community resources, and long-term strategy. Through the implementation of the comprehensive SC Cancer Plan(opens in new tab), volunteer members and healthcare partners focus on key priority areas designed to reduce the burden of cancer across every county in South Carolina.

Key Takeaways from the Waccamaw Regional Meeting

• Screening and Early Detection Save Lives: A primary goal across all regions is determining how to increase participation in routine screenings and encourage individuals to schedule annual appointments with primary care physicians.

• Modern Diagnostics and Breast Health: Age remains the primary risk factor for breast cancer, and 70% of women diagnosed have no family history of the disease, while 5–10% carry genetic mutations. 3D mammography has become the standard of care in the U.S., supplemented by ultrasounds, MRIs, and advanced options like thermography.

• Overcoming Obstacles in Men’s Health: Men consistently lag behind in scheduling routine physician visits and preventative screenings, often overlooking the broader impact on their families and loved ones.

• Precision and Multidisciplinary Care: Because individual biology varies, care teams utilize multiple modalities to tailor treatment and avoid unnecessary toxicity. Following evidence-based national guidelines through a collaborative, multidisciplinary treatment team yields the best outcomes.

• Holistic Community Support: Addressing cancer requires support beyond clinical care. Local partners like the Waccamaw Regional Council of Governments provide crucial community wrap-around services, including transportation assistance, home care, home-bound meal deliveries, Medicare enrollment support, referral networks, and caregiver respite.

Looking Ahead to the Annual Statewide Meeting

The insights gathered at regional meetings demonstrate that progress happens when local initiatives connect with statewide strategy. Building on the discussions held in Pawleys Island, the upcoming annual meeting in Columbia will bring together leaders from across South Carolina to continue expanding resources, refining prevention strategies, and ensuring every South Carolinian has access to high-quality care. I am grateful to have the opportunity to participate in this week’s conference and look forward to sharing more information and resources with our readers upon my return.