cancer

Social media influencer Zhang Jingwen, known as “Shining Little Wen,” passed away on June 26, 2025, at the age of 20, after battling late-stage gastric cancer. The Shandong University student, diagnosed in 2024, documented her fight online. Gastric cancer, often detected late due to symptoms mimicking common ailments, can lead to rapid decline. The importance of early medical evaluation for persistent gastrointestinal issues is emphasized.

Defense Therapeutics Inc. announced the opening of its first U.S. lab in the Boston-Cambridge area. This strategic move expands its R&D efforts within a leading biotech hub, focusing on the Accum® platform for antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) used in cancer treatment. The Watertown facility provides access to crucial scientific resources and collaboration opportunities. Defense Therapeutics aims to establish a long-term presence in the area, aiming to strengthen its commitment to advancing their platform.

Actress Zhu Yuanyuan and musician Zhao Yingjun, pivotal to China’s acclaimed film *Hi, Mom* (2020), have died of cancer, reigniting discussions on the drama’s themes of resilience and human connection amid illness. Zhu portrayed the mother of a terminally ill teen, while Zhao composed its evocative soundtrack. Directed by Han Yan, the film explores two cancer patients’ transformative bond, earning nominations at China’s Hundred Flowers and Huabiao Awards. Its enduring relevance highlights global cinema’s shift toward narratives that humanize medical adversity and amplify societal empathy. Critics praise their artistic legacy for mirroring real-world struggles with quiet courage.