Washington, D.C. – Today the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pension (HELP) Committee will meet to vote on the nomination of Dr. Stephen Hahn as the next commissioner of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Approval of Dr. Hahn by the HELP Committee will allow for full Senate consideration.
Following is a statement from Lisa Lacasse, president of the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN):
“From reviewing and approving innovative therapies, to being given the mandate to regulate the entire tobacco industry, the work of the FDA plays a central role in the fight against cancer. Given the complex and far-reaching work of the agency, a confirmed commissioner is vital to the agency’s work. Through his public testimony and choosing to meet with stakeholders from the public health community, in addition to his extensive experience as an oncologist, Dr. Hahn has made it clear he is well-positioned to lead the FDA forward. We urge members of the Senate HELP Committee to work in a bipartisan fashion to advance Dr. Hahn’s nomination for FDA Commissioner.
“During his confirmation hearing, Dr. Hahn pledged to use science and data to lead the work of the FDA into the future. This commitment is critically important to curb the skyrocketing rates of youth tobacco use, as well as significantly reduce death and suffering caused by addictive tobacco products. We urge Dr. Hahn to continue to advance and implement comprehensive tobacco control regulation.
“On behalf of cancer patients, survivors, families and caregivers, we urge the Senate HELP Committee to affirm its support of Dr. Hahn as the next commissioner of the FDA and clear the way for full Senate consideration.”
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