Arkansas secured 5 million in the state budget for its statewide colorectal cancer screening program for the underserved. The money, which will be administered through the University of Arkansas Medical System, will be available beginning July 1, 2010 and because of state budget rules it cannot be eliminated or reduced. The American Cancer Society in Arkansas was instrumental in the creation of the pilot program that led to the lawmakers' commitment to it.
After months of delay and hard negotiations, Congress has finally passed a funding bill! The bill includes a small increase for cancer research and prevention programs.