BOISE – May 10, 2023 – Senator Mike Crapo was named a recipient of the “Fighting to End Cancer Award” during a virtual ceremony, Wednesday. The award was presented to Sen. Crapo on behalf of the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) and several other cancer-fighting organizations in Idaho.
Sen. Crapo was recognized for years of advocating for policies which have benefitted cancer patients and survivors across the country. ACS CAN also applauds Sen. Crapo for being a lead sponsor on the Medicare Multi-Cancer Early Detection Screening Coverage Act (MCED) in the 117th Congress, which is currently being considered again in the 118th Congress.
“ACS CAN recognizes the efforts Sen. Crapo has made in the fight against cancer since joining Congress more than two decades ago,” said Randy Johnson, ACS CAN Idaho Government Relations Director. “We thank him for being a champion and urge the senator’s colleagues to follow his lead and support making cancer prevention a top priority at the federal level.” 
Multi-cancer screenings tests have the potential to detect cancer early. Earlier screening for cancer is important. When detected at later stages, cancer treatments can be more limited, and outcomes are generally poorer. Because the risk of cancer increases with age, Medicare beneficiaries are especially vulnerable. The Nancy Gardner Sewell Medicare Multi-Cancer Early Detection Screening Coverage Act introduced in the U.S. House of Representatives this year could expand access to cancer screenings in Medicare. ACS CAN believes that Medicare enrollees should have access to multi-cancer screening tests once FDA approved and clinical benefit is shown. Without legislation, beneficiaries could experience unacceptable delays in access to multi-cancer early detection.
ACS CAN applauds Sen. Crapo for being a champion of this potentially lifesaving legislation. On behalf of cancer patients, survivors, and caregivers across Idaho and around the country, our organization is proud to work alongside Sen. Crapo towards the mission of reducing the cancer burden for everyone.