Arkansas Cancer Advocates Gather in Little Rock, Calling for Genetic Testing Access

LITTLE ROCK, Ark. – Advocates from the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) met with lawmakers over lunch this afternoon before heading to the Capitol. Their goal: urging state lawmakers to remove barriers to genetic testing and recommended cancer imaging.
During Cancer Action Day, advocates called for Senate support on House Bill 1079, which aims to eliminate cost-sharing requirements for clinically appropriate genetic testing and guideline recommended cancer imaging for those with high-risk of developing cancer. 
Lindsay Penn was diagnosed with stage 4 breast cancer in 2019. Now, she’s turning her cancer journey into a source of purpose through her advocacy as an ACS CAN volunteer. 
Earlier this month, Penn traveled from Smithville to Little Rock to testify alongside oncologist Dr. Sam Makhoul in favor of HB 1079, sharing how genetic testing played a critical role in her treatment. 
"Early in my cancer journey, I underwent genetic testing to better understand my diagnosis and uncover any additional risk factors,” Penn said. “Knowing the genetic makeup of my cancer cells enabled my oncology team to tailor a treatment plan for me.” She is now celebrating five years of remission.
Fortunately, testing also revealed that Penn was not genetically predisposed to any cancers. "It was an enormous relief to my family to know that heredity was not a factor," she said. "It's a comforting realization that every family deserves to have."
“As tests such as these become a foundational part of our approach to cancer detection and treatment, our policies for insurance coverage should evolve to support appropriate access for all Arkansas,” said Matt Glanville, government relations director at ACS CAN.
“This legislation would provide patients with crucial information to make informed healthcare decisions and access recommended screenings,” Glanville states. “Removing financial barriers improves the chances of early detection which reduces long-term healthcare costs and ultimately saves lives.”
Increasing access to genetic testing helps Arkansans better understand their cancer risk. Women with moderate risk inherited gene mutations face a 20-49% higher lifetime risk of breast cancer, while those with high-risk mutations face 50% or more.
To assess your cancer risk, use the American Cancer Society’s new comprehensive cancer risk assessment tool, CancerRisk360. The tool provides individuals with an accessible, easy first step to prevent and detect cancer by offering a better understanding of several factors that impact a person’s individual risk.  

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About ACS CAN 
The American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) advocates for evidence-based public policies to reduce the cancer burden for everyone. We engage our volunteers across the country to make their voices heard by policymakers at every level of government. We believe everyone should have a fair and just opportunity to prevent, detect, treat, and survive cancer. Since 2001, as the American Cancer Society’s nonprofit, nonpartisan advocacy affiliate, ACS CAN has successfully advocated for billions of dollars in cancer research funding, expanded access to quality affordable health care, and advanced proven tobacco control measures. We stand with our volunteers, working to make cancer a top priority for policymakers in cities, states and our nation’s capital. Join the fight by visiting www.fightcancer.org.