WASHINGTON, D.C.— January 3, 2025 — “As the 119th Congress convenes today, ACS CAN is urging members to keep cancer patients and survivors at the core of every health policy decision, from funding cancer research to ensuring access to quality, affordable health coverage.
“Every major breakthrough in the fight against cancer in the United States has one thing in common: the research was in some way funded by the federal government thanks to strong, bipartisan support and commitment from Congress. These developments save lives and spur economic progress. Federally funded medical research is conducted in thousands of labs and universities across the country. This in turn leverages increased private investment and development. We must continue our investment to avoid jeopardizing our nation's potential to save more lives while simultaneously risking America's position as the global leader in medical research.
We must also continue leveraging past investments in cancer research and applying what works to prevent and detect cancer earlier, and we can only do so as long as we also prioritize funding for cancer prevention programs. Sustained investments in critical initiatives at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), such as the National Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program, have led to 16.5 million screening exams for more than 6.4 million eligible people since the inception of the program, detecting 79,789 invasive breast cancers.
“While the U.S. invests in development of innovative treatments, Congress must also ensure people have access to these new developments through affordable, meaningful health care coverage. Research shows that uninsured Americans are less likely to get screened for cancer and thus more likely to have their cancer diagnosed at an advanced stage when survival is less likely and the cost of care more expensive. With that in mind, ensuring the maintenance of affordable, quality health care coverage will be one of ACS CAN’s top priorities next year, as it has long been.
“One out of ten adults with a history of cancer relied on Medicaid for their health care in 2023, according to data analyzed by the American Cancer Society, underscoring the critical role Medicaid plays in helping cancer patients navigate their diagnosis and survive this disease. In fact, research shows that expanding Medicaid not only increases health insurance coverage rates but also survival rates. In addition, Medicaid protects individuals and families from devastating medical debt, helps keep rural hospitals’ doors open, creates jobs in our communities, and helps our nation become healthier and more prosperous. Medicaid is a lifeline for millions, and we urge Congress to ensure those eligible continue to have access without barriers.
“Beyond Medicaid, the enhanced tax credits for Marketplace plans have helped millions of people in America see their monthly premiums significantly decline, making it possible for them to access the care they need, including cancer screenings and cancer treatment. These enhanced tax credits must be extended and not allowed to expire in 2025 to ensure patients who are undergoing treatment or survivorship care don’t face skyrocketing premiums. Unaffordable coverage could result in care delays that could lead to later stage diagnoses.
“If we are to reduce suffering and death from cancer, a disease that touches everyone, our lawmakers must prioritize this mission by continuing to fund cancer research and protecting access to quality, affordable health coverage.”