PHOENIX – August 27, 2024 – A recent poll by the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) shows 8 in 10 or 82% of voters in Arizona view a candidate’s position on access to affordable, comprehensive health coverage as a vote-determining factor.
The poll findings showed a majority of voters feel the health care system is not meeting the needs of most of the state’s residents. Conducted by Public Opinion Strategies and Hart Research, this poll is a part of ACS CAN’s national Cancer Votes campaign—the country’s leading voter education program for cancer-related issues and policies.
“With two million people in the US expected to be diagnosed with cancer this year, it’s more important than ever for voters to make their voices heard on the health care issues that matter to them most,” said Lisa Lacasse, president of ACS CAN. “Policy decisions stand at the very core of many barriers people face during their cancer diagnosis and treatment. Whether it’s voting to support lifesaving cancer research or access to health care and cancer screenings, voters have the power to make cancer issues a top priority this election season.”
Additionally, 6 in 10 (60%) voters in Arizona say their state has gotten off on the wrong track. This is much more negative than voters nationally. Voters also said addressing health care costs, particularly out-of-pocket costs is the most important health care issue in the state. Among voters of color and Hispanic/Latino voters, out-of-pocket costs was among the top issues as it relates to health care.
According to the American Cancer Society’s annual Cancer Facts and Figures report, more than 42,000 Arizonans will be diagnosed in 2024. More than 13,000 are expected to die from the disease. Cancer is the second-leading cause of death in Arizona, according to the Center for Disease Control.
“With 1 in 3 people in the US expected to receive a cancer diagnosis in their lifetime, it’s no wonder a majority of Arizonans support measures that ensure our access to affordable and quality health care,” said Jen Vance, Flagstaff resident and ACS CAN Arizona lead volunteer. “Policies that support ending the cancer burden, as we know it, for Arizonans are crucial.”
Volunteers for Cancer Votes will be attending candidate events, canvassing neighborhoods, holding rallies and distributing voter guides across the country to help inform voters about their candidates’ positions on cancer issues.
Individuals can register to vote, find their polling location and learn more about the Cancer Votes program and upcoming local events by visiting cancervotes.org. ACS CAN is strictly nonpartisan and does not endorse, oppose, or contribute to any candidate or political party.
To view the full details of the polling memo, click here.