What We Do

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Achieving a world free from the pain and suffering of cancer requires a comprehensive public policy agenda. Our mission and thus our work includes a strong focus on preventing cancer, seeking new cures and treatments and ensuring all Americans have access to the medical care that could save their life.  We also support the determination and courage of cancer patients and survivors by working to improve their quality of life both during treatment and after it has ended. 

Our enormous record of accomplishment is a result of our volunteers and staff relentlessly advocating at every level of government, from local city councils and county commissions to every state legislature, the U.S. Congress and the federal government.  

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Cancer Research Funding

Cancer research saves lives and makes more time for survivors.  By investing in the research of today, Congress can help prevent, detect, and treat many of the cancers of tomorrow, creating countless moments for patients and their loved ones in the process.

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Patient Quality of Life

We can save more lives and reduce health care spending by focusing on the needs of cancer patients and their caregivers during and after treatment. 

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Access to Health Care

We advocate to ensure all Americans have access to affordable health insurance and cancer care - from prevention through treatment.

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Tobacco Control

We advocate at every level of government to pass laws that prevent children from smoking, help adults quit and ensure the government regulates tobacco industry practices. 

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Cancer Prevention

We work with state and federal officials to implement laws and increase funding for programs that are proven to prevent cancer and save lives. 

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Oral Chemotherapy

Imagine the choice for a cancer patient - stay at home and take a chemotherapy pill or travel miles from home to receive the drug through an IV. Seems easy, right?

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Medicaid Covers US

Welcome to Medicaid Covers US, our new project to create a conversation about Medicaid and the role it plays in the health and well-being of our families, friends, and communities. We’re sharing stories and creating conversations about how having health insurance through Medicaid helps Americans stay healthy, go to work and care for their families. 

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Big Tobacco Lawsuit

In 2006, the American Cancer Society and other plaintiffs won a major court case against Big Tobacco. Judge Gladys Kessler found tobacco companies guilty of lying to the American public about the deadly effects of cigarettes and secondhand smoke.

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