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November Advocacy Update

​A message from ACS CAN President Lisa Lacasse

This November ushers in a changing season, marked by a coming leadership transition for our nation, including both the Administration and Congress. In preparation for this shift, ACS CAN is laser focused on elevating our key legislative priorities as we conclude the 118th Congress (Lame Duck session) and plan for the 119th Congress, as well as 50+ state legislative and territory sessions

The current federal government funding, operating under a continuing resolution, is set to expire on December 20th and there are several "must pass" legislative provisions that call for congressional action before the end of 2024.​​

Our focus during Lame Duck remains:

  • Passing FY25 appropriations with the highest possible increase for the National Institutes of Health (NIH), National Cancer Institute (NCI), and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
  • Passing the Medicare Multi-Cancer Early Detection Screening Act (MCED)
  • Passing the SCREENS for Cancer Act, reauthorizing the National Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program​​

We have deployed powerful grassroots strategies to elevate our calls to action. ​​​

Our dedicated volunteers are actively raising their voices – making phone calls, visiting offices, and sending a strong message to lawmakers to act and pass these priorities before the end of the year. This week we are launching advertising, featuring ACS CAN volunteers, that is directed to federal lawmakers and focused on our FY25 appropriations ask and passing MCED, prominently featured in the Washington Post and Politico Influence.​

ACS CAN will also be working with the new Administration's transition team, providing key information on our mission priorities. We are engaging with all members of Congress to elevate and educate on the need to make the Affordable Care Act Enhanced Tax Credits permanent.​​​

A huge shout-out to our 2024 Cancer Votes efforts, made possible by our team and volunteers. Through thoughtful and robust engagement with candidates on our key issues, we have laid important groundwork for collaboration with newly elected officials. We had 567 dedicated Cancer Votes volunteers this year and 93 candidates sign the Cancer Promise, a pledge to support evidence-based public policy solutions to end cancer as we know it, for everyone. As we move forward, we will build on these relationships and commitments with newly elected members of Congress as we advocate for our policy priorities.

At the state level, we are continuing to elevate Medicaid expansion in our targeted states of opportunity: Alabama, Mississippi and South Carolina as well as close out legislative sessions in a handful of states who have year-round legislatures. 

As we look ahead to 2025, ACS CAN will continue to elevate our patient-centered​​​ priorities and commitment to cancer health equity, centering the lived experiences and inclusive voices of all the communities we serve.

Thank you for your ongoing commitment to our vision to end cancer as we know it, for everyone. 

Lisa​​​

​​

State Updates

Delaware: In late October, Governor Carney signed a state version of the Prostate-Specific Antigen Screening for High-risk Insured Men Act or the PSA Screening (PSA for HIM) Act. ACS CAN was present during this signing. Zero Prostate and ACS CAN issued a joint press release to highlight the enactment of the legislation and the Governor's approval.

DC: In October, Mayor Bowser signed a council-adopted version of PSA for HIM and Congress is reviewing the law. ACS CAN issued a press release and DC volunteer and two-time prostate cancer survivor Lawson Brooks testified on behalf of the bill in front of the City Council. Upon its passage, Lawson sat down for an interview with NBC Washington affiliate WRC-TV to share his story and emphasize the importance of improving access to early detection.

Arizona: Navajo Nation Legislative Council passed a $1.50 tobacco tax increase and parity increases in other tobacco products including a new tax on e-cigarettes and synthetic nicotine products. The legislation still awaits signing by Navajo President Nygren. ACS CAN provided technical assistance with the development of the language and a letter of support.​


Federal and Judicial Updates

New 2024 data from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s National Youth Tobacco Survey found that more than 2 million youth or 8.1% reported using commercial tobacco products. This number is the lowest since 1999. We are proud of this decline; however, a closer look at the data shows that by race and ethnicity, current tobacco use was highest among American Indian and Alaska Native youth for any tobacco product and e-cigarette use.

The survey also found that e-cigarettes remain the most popular tobacco products among youth with 1.63 million reporting current usage. Nicotine pouches climbed to the second most popular product with almost half a million-youth reporting current usage. Read more.

On November 4, ACS CAN and 5 other patient advocacy organizations filed an amicus curiae, or “friend-of-the-court,” brief in the case of American Clinical Laboratory Association et al v. U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in the U.S. District Court in the Eastern District of Texas. The amicus brief supports the FDA’s laboratory developed tests (LDTs) rule that harmonized oversight for diagnostic tests regardless of whether tests are performed in laboratories or sold as prepackaged kits. Prior to the rule, diagnostic tests underwent widely different oversight depending on whether they were submitted to the FDA for review or were offered as LDTs, the latter of which does not involve any premarket review, product registration listing, or adverse event reporting. This difference opened the door to the possibility that test results for the same sample could vary depending on where the test was conducted, potentially leading to incorrect treatment decisions and patient harm if a test result is not valid. Read more​. ​​​


Native American Heritage Month is an opportunity to celebrate the culture, traditions & lives of American Indian, Alaska Native, Native Hawaiian, & affiliated Island communities. We also commemorate the accomplishments of Indigenous & Native people in our history and culture. Help us elevate on social media.

Have you met our newest volunteer affinity group? Indigenous Volunteer Voices works to end the cancer burden among Native peoples by advocating for policies that honor their unique histories, wisdoms, cultures, and traditions. Learn more and amplify on LinkedIn.​


Events to Watch

Today: Join us for a How Anti-Trans Legislation is Impacting Cancer webinar hosted by ACS CAN and the National LGBT Cancer Action Network at 3 pm ET, a discussion on the impact of anti-trans legislation on the healthcare of trans individuals, including cancer prevention and treatment. Hear directly from trans people who have been impacted by these harmful laws and learn how health care professionals and advocates can make a difference. Register here.

Catch the replay of Equitable Access: Return to Breast Cancer Screening for Under Resourced Communities, a joint event hosted by ACS CAN's volunteer Affinity Groups to discuss breast cancer screening disparities and opportunities. Watch it here.

Catch the replay of Eliminating Policy Barriers to Diversifying Clinical Trials. ​​This webinar detailed the policies to diversify clinical trials, and more specifically HR 8412, the Clinical Trial Modernization Act, by the National Minority Quality Forum featuring Dr. Mark Fleury, Principal, Policy Development, Emerging Science at ACS CAN.​

​

In Case You Missed It

On October 16th ACS and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Oncology Center of Excellence (OCE) held a joint symposium on Benchmarks for Diversity in Oncology Clinical Trials. The event was attended by 55 in-person attendees and over 300 virtual attendees. Panelists discussed practical aspects of setting demographic trial enrollment targets, which are part of newly required Diversity Action Plans which must be submitted to the FDA. ​

On October 17th ACS CAN hosted the Improving the Cancer Clinical Trial Matching Ecosystem meeting in Washington DC and online. The meeting explored progress on recommendations made five years ago at an earlier summit and explored additional work still needed.

​​

Advocacy in the News

•  Wall Street Journal: Biden’s Cancer Moonshot’s Last Acts: Easing Pediatric Drug Shortages

•  US News: Lack of Insurance Could Mean Later Cancer Diagnoses for Black, Hispanic Americans

•  Politico Pro: States losing cancer care fastest have something in common: They’ve refused to expand Medicaid.

• CNBC: Op-ed: The financial toxicity of cancer is growing. Here’s what can be done to reduce it

•  Newsweek: Map Shows States With Cheapest Cigarettes

•  The Grio: Breast cancer deaths continue to fall as new cases rise among young women

•  Forbes: California Legalizes Cannabis Cafes Amid Hemp THC Ban

•  NBC 4 Washington: Free prostate cancer screening bill signed by DC's mayor

•  The Baltimore Sun: Next senator should make fighting cancer a national priority

•  Spectrum News 1: Bill aims to get prostate cancer screenings covered by insurance

•  WV Public Broadcasting: Anti-Tobacco Advocates Disappointed With Lack Of Legislative Consideration 

•  Hawaii Public Radio: Report: Breast cancer rates for AAPI women have risen over last 2 decades​

  • ACS CAN Says Ballot Passage in South Dakota Puts Work Requirements Back on the Table

    South Dakota voters on Nov. 5 passed Amendment F, which would change the state constitution to allow for work requirements to be added to the state's Medicaid expansion program. However, they defeated IM 28, which could have undone years of progress in tobacco control efforts by allowing lawmakers to undo tobacco taxes. The following is a statement from Lisa Lacasse, president of the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN.)

    “The passage of Amendment F in South Dakota this week opens a dangerous and life-threatening door to add work requirements to the state's Medicaid expansion program. Doing so would erect new barriers to accessing health insurance for individuals who have no other affordable health coverage option and will result in others who already have Medicaid coverage to lose it. ACS research has shown time and again that access to health insurance is a significant determining factor in surviving a cancer diagnosis. If lawmakers take action to add work requirements to the state's Medicaid expansion program as a result of this constitutional change, they will be putting lives at risk.

    ​“ACS CAN has long advocated against Medicaid work requirements which have failed in other states to achieve their stated outcomes.  Not only do work requirements not increase employment, they instead leave individuals and families uninsured and more vulnerable to illness, like cancer, ultimately making it more difficult for residents to contribute to their communities. Further, individuals who are dealing with serious illnesses like cancer often have to stop working during their treatment – withdrawing their health insurance as a result is barbaric.

    “We urge South Dakota lawmakers to let this end here and reject any proposals to add dangerous work requirements to their Medicaid expansion program, which has resulted in more than 27,000 additional South Dakotans gaining health coverage since its implementation in 2023.

    “South Dakota voters rejected a measure this week that could have undone the state tobacco taxes, making deadly tobacco products more accessible to young people. Tobacco is the number one cause of preventable death and the cause of roughly 30% of all cancer deaths. This year, nationwide youth tobacco use rates fell to a 25-year low, thanks largely to implementation of proven tobacco control policies like increased tobacco taxes. We must continue what we know works to protect our young people from a lifetime of addiction to tobacco.

    ​​​“ACS CAN is grateful to our staff and volunteers in South Dakota who tirelessly worked to protect public health at the polls this election season. We look forward to working with newly elected officials at all levels of government to advance our mission to end cancer as we know it, for everyone."​​​

  • October Advocacy Update

    ​Highlights include Cancer Votes, the latest Survivor Views Survey results, and Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

    A message from ACS CAN President Lisa Lacasse

    We are just a few weeks away from Election Day, and no matter the outcome, we will continue our important work for cancer patients, survivors, and their families. We are advancing our work in the states in session before the end of year and continue to lay the essential groundwork in preparation for 2025 state sessions. We are preparing for all possible scenarios to engage with incoming lawmakers at the federal, state, and local levels to ensure that our priorities are prominent during the transition of offices.

    Until then, our Cancer Votes work is crucial. We recognize the pivotal role of elections in shaping cancer policy, and ACS CAN is actively working to secure commitments from candidates to make this disease that affects so many a priority. Our team members and volunteers across the country have been urging candidates seeking federal office to sign our Cancer Promise, a pledge to champion evidence-based public policy solutions to end cancer as we know it, for everyone. With over 550 dedicated Cancer Votes volunteers nationwide reaching out to candidates through various channels, we are proud to announce that 88 candidates have already signed the Cancer Promise, with more signing every week. We are encouraging everyone to use our ballot lookup tool to see what issues are on your ballot and view the list of candidates who have signed the Cancer Promise. 

    As the work of the 118th Congress draws to a close, our advocacy efforts remain critical, and we are working to get our priorities over the finish line. While Congress has passed a continuing resolution (CR) through December 20 and is currently in recess until after the election, we are strategically preparing for a pivotal final two months of the year. We will continue driving our main priorities – funding for cancer research and a pathway to access to innovative early detection in Medicare – amplified on the Hill through the collective power of hundreds of volunteers during Leadership Summit & Lobby Day (LS&LD) last month.

    We are urging support for the highest possible increases for cancer research in the FY25 funding bill with an ask of $51.3 billion for the National Institutes of Health (NIH), including $7.934 billion for cancer research at the National Cancer Institute (NCI), and $1.5 billion for the Advanced Research Projects Agency for Health (ARPA-H). We are also calling on Congress to support $472.4 million for the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) cancer programs, including $230 million for the National Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program.

    We are urging final passage of H.R. 2407/S. 2085 the Medicare Multi-Cancer Early Detection Screening Coverage Act. I’m proud to report that thanks to our efforts during LS&LD, we are now at 311 (8 new) House co-sponsors and 63 (2 new) Senate co-sponsors. A big congratulations to all our advocates who helped make this happen!

    During LS&LD volunteers began to educate their members on the importance of preventing premiums from skyrocketing for nearly 20 million people and millions from losing their health insurance. We are also urging Congress to make the Affordable Care Act Enhanced Tax Credits permanent to ensure affordable access to comprehensive health insurance for patients and survivors. This week, we released survey findings that strongly support our efforts to keep health insurance affordable. Keep reading to learn more.

    Thank you for your continued support.

    Keeping Insurance Affordable: New Survey Finds Cancer Patients and Survivors Overwhelmingly Support Extending the ACA Enhanced Tax Credits: Seventy-two percent (72%) of cancer patients and survivors support extending the Affordable Care Act enhanced tax credits, according to the latest Survivor Views survey ACS CAN released yesterday. Further, 43% of those surveyed who reported benefiting from the enhanced tax credits say they could not have afforded to enroll in a health plan without the tax credits, while others would have considered a plan that could carry significant financial risk or provide insufficient coverage.

    ACS CAN Continues to Support Legislation to Make the Affordable Care Act Enhanced Tax Credits Permanent: On September 25, U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen (NH) and Tammy Baldwin (WI) introduced a bill, the Health Care Affordability Act of 2024 (S.5194). If passed, the bill would make the Affordable Care Act (ACA) enhanced tax credits permanent, making health insurance coverage affordable for an estimated 20 million people. Co-sponsored by 45 Senators, this bill is a companion to Representative Lauren Underwood’s (IL) House bill (H.R. 9774) and would help ensure individuals who rely on enhanced tax credits to purchase marketplace plans continue to have affordable options for health insurance coverage. 

    Breast Cancer Awareness Month (BCAM): To kick off BCAM in early October, the American Cancer Society (ACS) released Breast Cancer Statistics, 2024, the organization’s biennial update on breast cancer occurrence and trends in the United States. The new report finds breast cancer mortality rates overall have dropped by 44% since 1989, averting approximately 517,900 breast cancer deaths. However, not all women have benefited from this progress, notably American Indian and Alaska Native (AIAN) women, whose rates have remained unchanged over the past three decades. I underscored our commitment to advocacy for legislation that benefits breast cancer patients in the ACS release, saying:

    “Through cooperative agreements with all 50 states, tribal organizations and territories, the National Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program (NBCCEDP) has been a lifeline for limited-income, uninsured and underinsured women, providing them with critical screenings and treatment. Congress has a chance to pass the Screening for Communities to Receive Early and Equitable Needed Services (SCREENS) for Cancer Act, which would reauthorize the NBCCEDP and expand its reach to more people who may not otherwise be screened. We urge Congress to take this step towards saving lives from cancer while reducing costs for our health care system.”

    In addition to increased funding for cancer research and passage of the MCED Act, we are urging Congress to pass the SCREENS for Cancer Act which would reauthorize NBCCEDP through 2028. 

    Hispanic Heritage Month Social Spotlight: Share this video of ACS CAN volunteers from our ACSí Se Puede Hispanic/Latino Advocacy Alliance, along with ACS CAN staff, in honor of Hispanic Heritage Month.

    September Volunteer Spotlight: We highlighted Eugenia (Gina) Posada from ACS CAN Texas! Gina serves as Ambassador Constituent Team (ACT) Lead for district 16 and has been a longtime volunteer. Gina is also a founding member of the ACSí Se Puede Hispanic/Latino Advocacy Alliance, one of our six volunteer affinity groups. Share her feature on LinkedIn and your other social channels.

    Upcoming Events

    Equitable Access: Return to Breast Cancer Screening for Under Resourced Communities

    Thursday, October 17 5:00 PM PT | 8:00 PM ET

    ACS CAN's volunteer affinity groups are hosting their first ever joint virtual event. The event will discuss breast cancer screening disparities and opportunities. Cancer survivors and panelists will share their stories and expertise. Register here.

    Virtual Film Screening of Trans Dudes with Lady Cancer

    Wednesday, November 6 4:00 PM PT | 7:00 PM ET

    The short film documents the journey of two transmasculine people as they navigate cancer within the medical system. The film will be followed by Q&A with the filmmakers Yee Won Chong and Brooks Nelson. Register here.

    Lights of Hope 2024 Update: As of Monday, Lights of Hope has raised more than $849,153 towards our goal of $877,000, thanks to the efforts of our volunteers, national donors, and sponsorships collected from our partners at ACS. Nationwide, we have over 224 local sponsors of Lights of Hope. There is still time to support Lights of Hope before our October 15 fundraising deadline!

    Recent Events:

    Catch the Replay of Cancer & the Vote: Health, Hope and the 2024 Elections. ACS CAN shared how candidates, if elected, will help shape cancer policy for years to come. Expert pollsters from Public Opinion Strategies and Hart Research shared key polling data about how voters view cancer issues in this election. These data show the bipartisan support of our priorities and how affordability of health care is an important voter consideration.

    We cohosted a congressional briefing on the Health Equity and Accountability Act (HEAA) with the Asian & Pacific Islander American Health Forum in D.C. on October 2 focused on causes for and examples of cancer disparities in communities of color and how legislation, including HEAA and other ACS CAN-supported bills, would address these and improve health equity.

    Our One Voice Against Cancer (OVAC) Congressional Briefing in D.C. on September 24 was well attended by 50+ people and the discussion on the future of cancer research was wide ranging with good audience engagement. The discussion was moderated by Christina Annunziata, MD, PhD, Senior Vice President, Extramural Discovery Science at American Cancer Society. Panelists included: Danielle Carnival, PhD, Deputy Assistant to the President for the Cancer Moonshot, OSTP Deputy Director for Health Outcomes; Warren A. Kibbe, Ph.D., FACMI, Deputy Director for Data Science and Strategy, National Cancer Institute; Robert A. Winn, M.D., Director and Lipman Chair in Oncology, VCU Massey Cancer Center; Luisa Escobar-Hoyos, MSc, PhD, Assistant Professor of Therapeutic Radiology, Yale School of Medicine.

     The 2024 Virginia Palliative Care Policy Forum & Breakfast on September 29 gave medical school students, advocates, and the public an opportunity to learn how palliative care services support patients from the point of diagnosis, throughout treatment and beyond. ACS CAN Board member Dr. Bruce Waldholtz (pictured) emceed the event and ACS Chief Patient Officer Dr. Arif Kamal discussed how palliative care improves the quality of life of cancer patients and survivors.

    The 11th Annual Rhode Island Research Breakfast on October 2 brought together key leaders and decision makers in government, research, and academics to discuss the state of cancer research and innovation happening in the state. During the event, ACS CAN had the chance to congratulate and thank the late Senator Maryellen Goodwin, Representative Mia Ackerman, and Senator Jack Reed for championing our legislative priorities. Also in attendance were both RI members of Congress, Representative Seth Magaziner, Representative Gabe Amo, Secretary of State Gregg Amore, and Speaker of the House K. Joseph Shekarchi.

    In Due Season at the Milwaukee Film Festival: ACS CAN’s In Due Season was a featured documentary at the inaugural Milwaukee Film’s 2024 Dialogues Documentary Festival on September 26. ACS CAN staff and volunteers attended along with the film's director Ashley O’Shay who also joined a post-screening panel discussion. ACS CAN Board member Phil O’Brien and Debra Nevels, WI ACT Lead and member of the Black Volunteer Caucus, led the effort to get the film screened at film festival.

    Mississippi Health Summits: In partnership with our Medicaid Covers Us grantee, Together for Hope, the Mississippi team hosted a series of community health summits to highlight the need for Medicaid expansion in the state. Many of the summits featured MS Government Relations Director Kimberly Hughes and House Medicaid Chair Rep Missy McGee (pictured).The events took place in targeted legislative districts to continue the momentum from this year’s legislative session into 2025. 

    ACS CAN participated in the 53rd annual Congressional Black Caucus Foundation (CBCF) Annual Legislative Conference (ALC) September 11-15 in D.C. During this year’s conference, ACS CAN and ACS team members participated in several engagement opportunities alongside national industry leaders and elected officials and were joined by ACS CAN Board members, Dr. Kimberly Jeffries Leonard (chair), Dr. Karen Winkfield, David Ford, as well as ACS Chief Diversity Officer Tawana Thomas Johnson (pictured).

    ACS CAN also supported the Congressional Hispanic Caucus Institute (CHCI) Leadership Conference's 47th Annual Awards Gala in D.C. on September 19 with ACS CAN Board member Jose Ramos, ACS Board member Jose Buenaga, and ACS Executive Vice President, Puerto Rico Lillian Santos in attendance (pictured).

    State Updates:

    California: Gov. Newsom signed the flavored tobacco bill that requires the Attorney General (AG) to establish and maintain an unflavored tobacco list, gives state and local authorities power to seize and destroy anything not on the list, prohibits online sales/delivery of anything not on the list and gives the AG power to prosecute distributors and wholesalers who sell products not on the list. 

    Disappointingly, Newsom also signed a bill that allows licensed cannabis retailers and microbusinesses in California to sell non-cannabis food and beverages, and host live performances in areas designated for on-site cannabis consumption, pending local approval. Previously, California’s legal marijuana outlets couldn’t sell food and beverages. ACS CAN opposed this bill and voiced strong disappointment with the decision.

    Wisconsin: A new report released from the Wisconsin Policy Forum says that expansion of BadgerCare would benefit nearly 90,000 limited-income Wisconsin residents, including 61,000 parents. One finding from this report that is largely missing from the debate in Wisconsin is that residents of rural counties in Wisconsin are the most likely to benefit from BadgerCare expansion. 

    Judicial Updates:

    Big Tobacco will have to pay a $3.5 million penalty for lack of retailer compliance on corrective statements. The settlement in the decades-long lawsuit brought by the Department of Justice against Big Tobacco for fraud and racketeering in which ACS is an intervenor includes detailed audit provisions requiring an independent auditor to conduct thousands of audits to ensure retailers are posting the statements. If the auditor finds a noncompliance rate among the representative sample of greater than 15%, the manufacturers have to pay a civil penalty to the U.S. Treasury of $3.5 million, which was triggered during the last period.

    Patient Groups Urge District Court to Uphold Expansion of Critical Access to Affordable Health Insurance for DACA Recipients. Last week, patient groups representing millions of individuals with serious diseases and health conditions filed an amicus curiae (friend of the court) strongly urging the U.S. District Court for the District of North Dakota to deny a motion for a stay and preliminary injunction in the case of Kansas v. United States of America. The brief maintains that the final rule issued by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) expanding insurance coverage eligibility to Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) recipients aligns with Congress’s intent in passing the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (ACA) because it will improve patient outcomes and public health, and reduces uncompensated care costs by decreasing the number of uninsured individuals. Read more.

    Victory In Public Charge Rule Case: A district court in Texas upheld the current federal public charge rule, meaning an immigrant's enrollment in Medicaid should not adversely affect their immigration status. ACS CAN had supported the rule with an amicus brief. 

    Advocacy in the News

    • New York Times: California Will Allow Amsterdam-Like Cannabis Cafes
    • AP News: Limits to anti-nausea pill coverage wear on cancer patients and doctors
    • ProPublica: A Supreme Court Justice Warned That a Ruling Would Cause “Large-Scale Disruption.” The Effects Are Already Being Felt.
    • HealthDay: More Cancer Cases in Areas Where Incarceration Rates Are High: Study
    • Gray TV: Iowa cancer survivors lobby on Capitol Hill 
    • Spectrum News: Cancer advocates push for funding, legislation on Capitol Hill 
    • Cancer Health: Cancer Patients and Survivors Urge Congress to Make Cancer a National Priority 
    • Telemundo Puerto Rico: Cancer Advocates Ask for Access to Innovative Cancer Detection Tests (Spanish)
    • WJLA: 10,000 ‘Lights of Hope’ Honor Cancer Survivors  
    • Boston Globe: Cancer is the number one cause of death among Latinos. It doesn’t have to be. 
    • Alabama Daily News: Latest rural hospital closure sparks renewed cries for Medicaid expansion
    • Pittsburgh Post Gazette: Marina Posvar: The cancer promise Bob Casey and Dave McCormick must make
    • Las Vegas Sun: Alex Garza: Fighting cancer and addressing health care at the polls
    ​

  • Cancer patients and survivors support extending ACA enhanced tax credits

    ​

    On Oct. 8, the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) released its latest Survivor Views survey. The survey, which explores the impacts of the Affordable Care Act (ACA) enhanced tax credits on cancer patients and survivors, shows participants overwhelmingly support extending the enhanced tax credits for people who purchase health coverage through the ACA marketplace. 

    In this most recent Survivor Views survey, 72% of cancer patients and survivors support extending the ACA enhanced tax credits. Further, 43% of those surveyed who reported benefiting from the enhanced tax credits say they could not have afforded to enroll in a health plan without the tax credits. Others reported they would have considered a plan that could carry significant financial risk or provide insufficient coverage.

    "As part of this survey, we were troubled to find some respondents say they would consider filing for bankruptcy or selling their house in order to afford care if these tax credits go away," said ACS CAN President Lisa Lacasse. “Forcing cancer patients and survivors to pull from retirement funds or go into debt to pay for the quality health coverage they need to survive is unacceptable. ACS CAN is urging Congress to hear these stories and take action to make the ACA enhanced tax credits permanent before they expire.”  

    The survey also discovered that if the enhanced tax credits are no longer available after they expire in 2025, 30% of those receiving tax credits said they would skip or delay health care to reduce expenses, more than one-quarter (27%) would cut non-health expenses, 25% would cancel their coverage, while another 25% said they would accumulate debt in order to keep their coverage and 20% would cut health expenses. Almost one-in-five (19%) said they would borrow from their retirement savings to afford their care. Twelve percent responded that they did not expect to survive their cancer without the tax credits since they would not be able to afford treatment.  

    Background

    The data in this survey was collected July 26, 2024 – Aug. 30, 2024. A total of 1,597 cancer patients and survivors responded to the survey. ACS CAN’s Survivor Views research initiative was designed to support the organization’s efforts to end suffering and death from cancer through public policy advocacy. Data provided by cancer patients and survivors allows for a greater understanding of their experiences and opinions on cancer-related issues and gives voice to cancer patients and survivors in the shaping and advocating of public policies that help prevent, detect and treat cancer and promote a more positive quality of life for those impacted.  

    Read the full polling memo here.   

    ACS CAN has long advocated for public policies, like making permanent the ACA’s enhanced tax credits, to help ensure comprehensive health insurance is more affordable for people to receive the medical coverage they need. With health insurance status being one of the most significant determining factors in surviving a cancer diagnosis, on Sept. 25 ACS CAN fully supported U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen and Tammy Baldwin’s plan to introduce the Health Care Affordability Act of 2024 bill to make permanent the ACA enhanced tax credits. This bill will help an estimated 20 million people who rely on enhanced tax credits to purchase marketplace plans continue to have affordable options for health insurance coverage, which is critical to prevent, detect, treat and survive cancer. 

    For more information on Survivor Views, visit ACS CAN’s website at www.fightcancer.org/survivor-views. 


  • ACS CAN Advocates for affordable health Insurance

    ​Efforts to uphold coverage would impact DACA recipients.

    On Oct. 2, the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) along with other patient groups representing millions of individuals with serious diseases and health conditions filed an amicus curiae (friend of the court) brief strongly urging the U.S. District Court for the District of North Dakota to deny a motion for a stay and preliminary injunction in the case of Kansas v. United States of America. 

    The brief maintains that the final rule issued by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) expanding insurance coverage eligibility to Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) recipients aligns with Congress’s intent in passing the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (ACA) because it will improve patient outcomes and public health, and reduces uncompensated care costs by decreasing the number of uninsured individuals. 

    The groups on the brief including ACS are the American Lung Association, Epilepsy Foundation of America, The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, and Muscular Dystrophy Association, issued the following statement on today’s
    filing:    

    “Access to affordable and comprehensive health insurance coverage ensures that people can prevent, detect and treat serious illnesses and health conditions, and is critical for surviving chronic diseases like cancer. 

    “Since the ACA’s implementation, over 45 million people have gained coverage, slashing the rate of uninsured individuals to historic lows. However, 27% of DACA recipients remain uninsured despite working and paying taxes to support the ACA. 

    "The HHS Final Rule would give over 500,000 DACA recipients -- many of whom have only ever known the U.S. as home -- access to timely, quality care. This would promote preventive care and earlier diagnoses, making treatment less expensive and more effective while also helping reduce health disparities and create a healthier, more productive workforce. 

    “Additionally, contrary to the Plaintiffs’ arguments, expanding coverage to DACA recipients will generate economic benefits to individuals and their communities by lowering uncompensated care costs, reducing the number of individuals who rely on expensive emergency services, and contributing to insurance pools with a population that is, on average, younger and healthier. 

    “Everyone, including DACA recipients, deserves equal access to timely, quality, comprehensive health care. Therefore, we urge the District Court to deny the Plaintiffs’ motion for a stay of the Final Rule and preliminary injunction."

    The groups on the brief are represented by Democracy Forward, a non-profit legal organization. 



  • Advocacy Update - Special Edition

    ​Leadership Summit & Lobby Day saw largest group yet gathered in Washington, D.C.​

    A message from ACS CAN President Lisa Lacasse

    Last week was a powerful reminder of why our public policy advocacy is so crucial in the fight against cancer. Nearly 750 American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) participants–our largest group yet–gathered in Washington, D.C. to advocate on behalf of everyone impacted by cancer. Together, we represented all 50 states, Washington, D.C., Guam, Puerto Rico, and nearly every congressional district during our 18th annual Leadership Summit & Lobby Day (LS&LD)! My sincerest gratitude to everyone who had a hand in planning, executing and engaging in these impactful days of advocacy, including our outstanding team members, ACS CAN Board members, the American Cancer Society (ACS) Board members, and our ACS Executive Leadership Team. 

    Keep reading to see the tremendous impact we made together: 

    Day 1: Affinity Row, Working to Reach All Communities 

    Our LS&LD started with Affinity Row, an opportunity for ACS CAN’s six volunteer affinity groups–the Black Volunteer Caucus (BVC), the LGBTQIA+ & Allies Engagement Group, the ACSí Se Puede Hispanic/Latino Advocacy Alliance, the Asian American & Pacific Islander Volunteer Caucus, the Young Leaders Caucus (YLC), and Indigenous Volunteer Voices–to show the impact they've been making across the country and introduce themselves to new volunteers. There was much to learn from these volunteer communities who are working to ensure ACS CAN engages everyone in the fight against cancer. We were proud to have 130 affinity group members in attendance this year, with more volunteers signing up for affinity groups at the event.

    Annual Advocacy Honors Presented to Volunteers and Colleagues

    LS&LD continued by celebrating more than a dozen volunteers and colleagues who received special recognition awards for their exceptional work advancing ACS CAN’s mission, including: 

    Volunteer Award for Excellence in Advocacy (VAEA) – Patty Avery (IN)

    The highest national volunteer advocacy honor bestowed by ACS CAN.

    State Lead Ambassador (SLA) of the Year – Caroline Torres Maldonado (PR)

    Presented to a lead volunteer who has demonstrated exemplary leadership in advocating for ACS CAN’s area of cancer-related public policy.

    Young Leader Award – McKayla McCullah (HI) and Kira Sano (CA)

    Presented to a state volunteer who has demonstrated an exciting promise in their start with ACS CAN by taking advantage of new opportunities to advocate for cancer patients.

    State Advocacy Team of the Year – Team New York

    Presented to combined staff and volunteer teams that have worked together to make a significant impression in cancer-related public policy.

    Ambassador Constituent Team (ACT) Leads of the Year – Laura LaRose (CA), Gina Posada (TX) and Debra Nevels (WI)

    Presented to a lead congressional district volunteer who has demonstrated remarkable leadership advocating for ACS CAN’s areas of cancer-related public policy.

    ACS Partner of the Year – Jeff Hille (Financial Analysis & Planning, ACS) Presented to an American Cancer Society team member who collaborates with ACS CAN to advance its mission to reduce the cancer burden through public policy change.

    Dave Woodmansee Award for Excellence – Trista Hargrove (Media Advocacy Communications)

    In honor of longtime ACS CAN State and Local Campaigns Director David Woodmansee, who passed away from cancer in 2019, this award is presented to a team member who has consistently demonstrated outstanding leadership and excellence in the areas of advocacy and public policy.

    Field Government Relations Professional of the Year – Emily Kalmer (MO)

    Presented to a government relations professional who has worked tirelessly to make a powerful, lasting impression in cancer-related public policy.

    Field Grassroots Professional of the Year – Britta Babel (MN)

    Presented to an ACS CAN team member whose collaborative efforts further the achievement of advocacy-related mission goals.

    National Professional of the Year – Marissa Beasley (Alliance Development)

    Presented to a team member who has made significant contributions to ACS CAN through their cancer advocacy work.

    A complete list of each recipient's accomplishments is available here. Please take a minute to reach out with a note of congratulations to these outstanding advocates – they would love to hear from you! 

    Day 2: Leadership Summit: Preparing for an Impactful Hill Day

    Each year, we spend Monday preparing our volunteer teams for Tuesday’s Capitol Hill meetings with lawmakers and deep dive into our legislative asks. This year, we welcomed even more participants to our main stage. In their role as our inaugural LS&LD emcees, National Ambassador Team members Jacqueline Beale and Lori Bremner reminded us of the power of connection and forging friendships as we continue to advocate for life-saving policies. Prior to morning breakout sessions, ACS CAN Board Chair Dr. Kimberly Jeffries Leonard and ACS Board Chair Brian Marlow ignited our energy levels and emphasized that our cause is clear: We are saving lives from cancer. I then addressed our volunteers, focusing on how precious time is in this fight and thanking them for the countless hours they spend advocating on behalf of ACS CAN.

    During our mid-day session, we listened to a conversation with ACS Chief Scientific Officer Dr. William Dahut and 17th National Cancer Institute Director Dr. W. Kimryn Rathmell who discussed “the why” behind our cancer research funding asks: $51.3 billion increase for the National Institutes of Health, including just under $8 billion for cancer research at the NCI.

    We later participated in Hill meeting prep and heard from our Federal Advocacy team who walked us through the fundamentals of our asks and some on-stage role playing on how best to engage with lawmakers. We also underscored the importance of including advocates’ personal experiences and stories in sharing our priorities. 

    2024 CAN Opener

    Our CAN Opener event this year was out of this world! More than 600 attendees danced the night away “To Boldly Go Where No Cancer Advocates Have Gone Before” in our space-themed attire. We saw astronauts and aliens alike, all joined by the common cause of our cancer advocacy work. The event raised over $47k for ACS CAN’s critical public policy advocacy work, thanks to the generosity of our sponsors. ACS CAN’s Silent Auction also raised over $11k for our mission with competitive bids on several items including signed memorabilia, a Chanel tote bag, custom cakes and attire!  

    Day 3: Lobby Day: Blue Shirt Brigade Brings Cancer Fight to Capitol Hill

    To ensure cancer is a top priority on Capitol Hill, ACS CAN’s advocates, including patients, survivors and family members, donned their signature blue shirts to meet with their lawmakers.

    Before heading to the Hill, we celebrated our elected officials who have been champions of our work. On Tuesday morning, we heard from our federal National Distinguished Advocacy Award (NDAA) recipients. This award is the highest national advocacy honor bestowed by ACS CAN to elected officials who have demonstrated tremendous leadership in the fight against cancer. 

    • Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV) joined us in the ballroom to accept her NDAA award for her commitment to improving access to cancer screenings, particularly her introduction of the Screening for Communities to Receive Early and Equitable Needed Services (SCREENS) for Cancer Act. 
    • Representative Dr. Raul Ruiz (D-CA) also received the NDAA award for his tireless dedication to cancer patients and introducing the Clinical Trial Modernization Act, which would make it easier for more patients to participate in the best trial options available.  

    We then headed to the Hill. ACS CAN advocates participated in meetings with every Senate office and 376 House offices, including 83 member-level meetings and 142 senior staff-level meetings. These are particularly impressive numbers given that we are in an election season! Volunteers reported back positive and insightful conversations with their lawmakers that yielded increased support for and co-sponsorship of our priority issues.

    Advocates urged their lawmakers to: 

    • Support the highest possible increases for cancer research in the FY25 funding bill with $51.3 billion for the National Institutes of Health (NIH), including $7.934 billion for cancer research at the National Cancer Institute (NCI), and $1.5 billion for the Advanced Research Projects Agency for Health (ARPA-H). Also support $472.4 million for the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) cancer programs, including $230 million for the National Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program. 
    • Support final passage of H.R. 2407/S. 2085 the Medicare Multi-Cancer Early Detection Screening Coverage Act.  

    Volunteers also introduced an issue that will be critical in the coming months and in the new year: making the Affordable Care Act Enhanced Tax Credits permanent to ensure affordable access to comprehensive health care insurance for patients and survivors.

    Lights of Hope 2024

    Our Lights of Hope DC Hope Walk display included 10,000 decorated Lights of Hope bags honoring or remembering loved ones impacted by cancer, as well as 53, 7-ft story columns highlighting one story from each state or territory. The rain could not dampen the spirits of the hundreds of advocates and supporters who joined us to view the beautiful display at Constitution Gardens on the National Mall. Nationwide we will display nearly 80,000 Lights of Hope all across America, including the 10,000 that were illuminated here in Washington, DC. I highly encourage you to scroll through the many beautiful images shared by volunteers on social media with #LightsofHope.  

    To date, volunteer fundraising in 2024 is at $833,120 and counting, including more than $790,000 from Lights of Hope! Nationwide, we have over 222 local sponsors of Lights of Hope. Special thank you to our State Premier sponsors: 

    • Baptist Health Cancer Care
    • CARTI
    • CEO's Against Cancer Houston and North Texas Chapters
    • Ergon
    • GRAIL 
    • Maryland/District of Columbia Society of Clinical Oncology
    • Natera
    • OU Health - Stephenson Cancer Center
    • The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center – Arthur G. James Cancer Hospital and Richard J. Solove Research Institute 
    • Omar Rashid, MD, JD, LLC

    There is still time to support Lights of Hope before our October 15 fundraising deadline.

    Thank you to every volunteer, colleague and partner who made this moving, impactful event a reality!

    Day 4: Celebration Close Out 

    Wednesday morning allowed us to reflect on our Hill Day, celebrate our impact, and boldly face the work ahead. We honored our three state NDAA recipients for their strong leadership in the fight to end cancer as we know it, for everyone:

    • Pennsylvania State Senator Devlin Robinson (R) was recognized for sponsoring his state’s Paid Family & Medical Leave Act and advocating for the passage of biomarker legislation to help ensure that patients have access to the most effective treatment for their cancer or illness, and his advocacy for passage of biomarker legislation that helps to ensure that patients have access to the most effective treatment for their cancer or illness. 
    • Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison (D) was recognized for his significant contribution to protecting Minnesotans from the harms of commercial tobacco, the cause of roughly 30% of all cancer deaths, and medical debt relief work. He took on Big Tobacco by taking JUUL and Altria to trial, securing more than $60 million. 
    • Colorado Lieutenant Governor Dianne Primavera (D) was recognized for her efforts to ensure every Coloradan has access to lifesaving cancer screenings and treatment. A cancer survivor herself, her track record of cancer advocacy includes passage of a bill ensuring insurance coverage for annual breast cancer screening for all individuals possessing at least one risk factor. 

    • We also celebrated the work of this year’s Judicial Advocacy Initiative recipient, Cybil Roehrenbeck, of Hogan Lovells. Cybil has used her tremendous Medicare expertise to assist ACS CAN and its partners in the Patient Quality of Life Coalition (PQLC) to draft comments on the annual Medicare Physician Fee Schedule.

    The celebrations continued as Dr. Kimberly Jeffries Leonard recognized top volunteer fundraisers, including the top ten Lights of Hope fundraisers who collectively raised more than $186,936!

    Each year, we come together because we have all been touched by cancer in some way. This year, members of ACS CAN’s Young Leaders Caucus held a panel discussion to remind us that no one is immune from the impacts of cancer. Our general session, Young Adult Storytellers and Implications for Policy included:

    • Gladys Arias, MPA, Principal for Health Equity Policy Analysis and Legislative Support who moderated our discussion. 
    • Remy Kennedy, Kentucky ACT Lead, who shared her experience as a caretaker to her father, who lost his battle with pancreatic cancer in 2013. In her remarks, she highlighted the importance of paid family medical leave. 
    • Jennifer Schultz, Minnesota Vice SLA, who is a four-time melanoma survivor and cancer research advocate. Her words reminded us of the importance of alleviating medical debt. 
    • Alique Topalian, PhD, MPH, who is a two-time cancer survivor. Alique started her cancer advocacy at the age of 7 and was the first person ever to relapse after 22 years. She shared her journey to start a family, highlighting the necessity of fertility preservation. 

    We concluded LS&LD with a conversation between FOX 5 DC Meteorologist and cancer survivor Jennifer Delgado and Emmy Award-winning journalist, author, artist and advocate Suleika Jaouad. Suleika documented her odyssey of illness, healing and self-discovery in the instant New York Times bestselling memoir Between Two Kingdoms, which has been translated to over twenty languages. The discussion between the two was intimate and personal and elevated the importance of our work. We shared our appreciation and well wishes with Suleika who is now facing leukemia once again–a diagnosis she learned of just last month. We were inspired by her choice to be “defiantly joyful” while also embracing the daily challenges and realities of her treatment experiences. Centering her story echoed what so many ACS CAN advocates experience, all which fuels us as we continue to advocate for life-saving cancer policies. 

    Amplifying Our Advocacy

    In conjunction with LS&LD Day, ACS CAN launched another compelling ad as part of our ongoing “Fight Cancer: Make Time” campaign, to remind lawmakers they have the power to make more time by prioritizing cancer and urge support for the highest possible funding levels for cancer research.

    Media coverage for Lights of Hope and LS&LD featured volunteers sharing what the event meant to them and highlights of their time in DC. Volunteers participated in 34 interviews in the lead up to and on Lobby Day through our radio and TV media tour, that included national and regional media outlets, as well as several multicultural media outlets serving Spanish-speaking and Black communities. To date, coverage related to our events has been secured in more than 86 media markets resulting in more than 296 media clips. We look forward to seeing additional letters to the editor and post-event articles appear in volunteers’ local media outlets as a follow-up to their successful lobby day. 

    Attendees also amplified our efforts across social media, with nearly 4,000 posts using the hashtags #CancerLobbyDay and #LightsOfHope, more than 40,300 engagements, 8.5 million accounts reached, totaling an absolute reach of 19 million and counting! Lawmakers and national organizations across the country also amplified our efforts, including NDAA award recipients Senator Capito (R-WV) and Representative Ruiz (D-CA) as well as Senator Cortez (D-NV) and Representatives Darin LaHood (R-IL-16) and Andrew Garbarino (R-NY-02), just to name a few. The NCAA and the National Association of Basketball Coaches even got in on the action.

    Your work helped get our message to millions. Let's keep the drumbeat going!

    LS&LD in the News

    •Gray TV: Iowa cancer survivors lobby on Capitol Hill

    •Spectrum News: Cancer advocates push for funding, legislation on Capitol Hill

    •Impacto Latino: New York Activists Travel to Washington, D.C., to Urge Congress to Prioritize the Fight Against Cancer (Spanish)

    •Cancer Health: Cancer Patients and Survivors Urge Congress to Make Cancer a National Priority

    •KOLO 9 Reno: NV Cancer Advocates Push for More Funding, Early Detection Testing

    •KXNET Bismarck : Bismarck cancer survivors going to D.C. convention

    •WJLA: 10,000 ‘Lights of Hope’ Honor Cancer Survivors

    •WBZ Nightside: 700 Cancer Advocates Urge MA Lawmakers to Pass Groundbreaking Cancer Detection Bill


  • ACS CAN supports legislation to make permanent ACA enhanced tax credits

    Move enables millions to purchase comprehensive health insurance coverage, critical to prevent, detect, treat and survive cancer​.

    On Sept. 25, U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen (NH) and Tammy Baldwin (WI) plan to introduce a bill, the Health Care Affordability Act of 2024, that would make permanent the Affordable Care Act (ACA) enhanced tax credits that help make health insurance coverage affordable for an estimated 20 million people. Co-sponsored by 45 Senators, this bill, related to Representative Lauren Underwood’s (IL) Health Care Affordability Act of 2023 (H.R. 1692), will help ensure individuals who rely on enhanced tax credits to purchase marketplace plans continue to have affordable options for health insurance coverage. The ACA enhanced tax credits allow more people to purchase comprehensive health insurance coverage, critical to prevent, detect, treat and survive cancer, contributing to historic enrollment in Marketplace plans after they took effect and helping to reduce the uninsured rate since enactment of the enhanced ACA tax credits. With health insurance status being one of the most significant determining factors in surviving a cancer diagnosis, this bill will save lives. 

    The following is a statement from American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) President Lisa Lacasse. 

    “ACS CAN is pleased to see the introduction in the U.S. Senate of the Health Care Affordability Act of 2024, which would make the ACA enhanced tax credits permanent. Having access to affordable health insurance coverage is a key determinant for surviving cancer. 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. ACS CAN has long advocated for public policies, like making permanent the ACA’s enhanced tax credits, that make comprehensive health insurance more affordable for people to get the coverage they need. 

    “This permanent extension of the ACA enhanced tax credits also has widespread support among potential voters, with a recent national ACS CAN poll finding 78% of voters support making permanent the ACA enhanced tax credits. The policy proposal has the support of the majority of Republican, Independent and Democrat respondents. 

    “Making the ACA enhanced tax credits for Marketplace plans permanent will ensure continued relief for the millions of people in America who have seen their monthly premiums significantly decline and for those who are unable to afford private insurance without these enhanced tax credits. If these enhanced tax credits sunset, patients who are undergoing treatment or survivorship care may face skyrocketing premiums and may be unable to afford their coverage any longer – a reality that could be life-threatening. ACS CAN urges Congress to pass this bill swiftly.”


  • Announcing 2024 recipients of Leadership Advocacy Awards

    ​ACS CAN honors team members and volunteers.​​

    On Sunday evening, Sept. 15, the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) began its annual Leadership Summit and Lobby Day (LS&LD) by honoring team members and volunteers for the exceptional leadership advocacy work they displayed throughout the year to make cancer a top national priority. The honorees include the following. 

    Team Member Awards 

    ACS Partner of the Year – This award is given to an American Cancer Society team member who collaborates with ACS CAN to advance its mission to reduce the cancer burden through public policy change. 

    Jeff Hille, senior consultant, Financial Planning & Analysis: During his decade-plus tenure, Jeff has worked to integrate ACS and ACS CAN seamlessly. A valued partner to every function of ACS CAN operations, from field to national, communications to grassroots, he is able to translate and make sense of complex financial planning with a can-do attitude. 

    Field Government Relations Professional of the Year – This award recognizes a government relations professional who has worked tirelessly to make a powerful, lasting impression in cancer-related public policy. 

    Emily Kalmer, government relations director, Missouri: Emily shepherded the passage of key legislation in Missouri that has impacted millions of lives on multiple cancer policy issues, including- increased access to breast and cervical cancer treatment, tobacco cessation and prevention funding and copay assistance for prescription drugs. She spends countless hours working behind the scenes to ensure that ACS CAN’s volunteers have impactful opportunities and moments. 

    Field Grassroots Professional of the Year -- This award is presented to an ACS CAN team member whose collaborative efforts further the achievement of advocacy-related mission goals. 

    Britta Babel: Britta has used her creativity to draw attention and priority from state lawmakers to ACS CAN’s legislative campaigns. She has amplified and empowered the voices of volunteers and partners, ensuring they were elevated throughout the continuum of ACS CAN’s policy work. 

    National Professional of the Year – This award is presented each year to an exemplary team member who has made significant contributions to ACS CAN through their cancer advocacy work.  

    Marissa Beasley, strategic director, Alliance Development: Marissa’s transformative skills have helped to create a new model for ACS and ACS CAN fundraising partnership, further highlighting, and emphasizing the importance of the organization’s advocacy work.

    Dave Woodmansee Award for Excellence – In honor of longtime ACS CAN State and Local Campaigns Director David Woodmansee, who passed away in 2019, this award is presented to a team member who has consistently demonstrated outstanding leadership and excellence in the areas of advocacy and public policy.  

    Trista Hargrove, director, Media Advocacy – Health Equity: Trista has exponentially grown the relevance and resonance of advocacy, engendering mission literacy among team members and external stakeholders alike for more than 20 years. She’s a longtime champion for diversity, equity, and inclusion, and has worked tirelessly to advance ACS CAN’s public policy agenda to address health disparities. 

    Volunteer Awards 

    Volunteer Award for Excellence in Advocacy (VAEA) – This award is the highest national volunteer advocacy honor bestowed by ACS CAN. 

    Patty Avery, Indiana (NAT): Patty has been a volunteer with ACS since 2000 and went on to join ACS CAN as a delegate at the 2006 Celebration on the Hill, a year before the volunteer structure was formed. She now serves as co-chair of the National Ambassador Team (NAT) where she connects Global Relay partners to ACS CAN information and tools. She is also a former State Lead Ambassador of the Year Award recipient. 

    State Lead Ambassador (SLA) of the Year – This award is presented to a lead state volunteer who has demonstrated exemplary leadership in advocating for ACS CAN’s area of cancer-related public policy. 

    Caroline Torres Maldonado, Puerto Rico: Caroline is the first SLA in Puerto Rico and has excelled at expanding her volunteer team and building their knowledge and skillsets through trainings. She has amassed a following on social media where she has promoted ACS CAN, fundraised and engaged new volunteers.

    Ambassador Constituent Team (ACT) Lead of the Year -- This award is given to a lead congressional district volunteer who has demonstrated remarkable leadership advocating for ACS CAN’s areas of cancer-related public policy. 

    • Laura LaRosa, California: As an oncology nurse practitioner, Laura has used her firsthand experience to advocate on behalf of her patients to fight for policy that will change the course of cancer. She was instrumental in getting her congressman to cosponsor the Nancy Gardner Sewell Medicare Multi-Cancer Early Detection (MCED) Screening Coverage Act and was the second highest Lights of Hope fundraiser in the country, raising over $23,000 last year.  
    • Debra Nevels, Wisconsin: Debra has remained a fierce advocate and champion for health equity, consistently centering and uplifting the needs of underserved communities. She is a proud member of ACS CAN’s Black Volunteer Caucus (BVC) and played a pivotal role in the PSA for HIM Screening Act postcard advocacy initiative, where she collected the most postcards out of any state. She also represented her state of Wisconsin for the Patient Quality of Life Coalition Lobby Day and pilot Inclusive Volunteer Engagement Training.   
    • Eugenia Posada, Texas: Eugenia has continued to push ACS CAN’s mission forward to end cancer as we know it, for everyone. She has played a significant role in the organization’s engagement with Spanish-speakers, attending dual language town halls for her representatives and completing several Spanish media engagements in her state. As an active member of the ACSí Se Puede Affinity Group, she has continued to increase awareness about cancer disparities faced in her community. 

    Young Leader Award - This award is presented to a state volunteer who has demonstrated an exciting promise in their start with ACS CAN by taking advantage of new opportunities to advocate for cancer patients. 

    • McKayla McCullah, Hawaiʻi: McKayla currently serves as the Vice State Lead Ambassador (SLA) in Hawaiʻi. She has participated in multiple Cancer Action Days, LS&LD, has tabled at multiple college outreach events and community events, and hosted a cancer and coffee talk in her community. She committed to advancing health equity as a member of three volunteer affinity groups: the Young Leaders Caucus, the Asian American & Pacific Islander (AAPI) Volunteer Caucus, and she co-founded ACS CAN’s newest Indigenous Volunteer Voices group. 
    • Kira Sano, California: Kira has devoted many hours to ACS CAN through her dedication to emerging leaders in California. Under her leadership, she has mobilized nearly 100 peers statewide to save lives from cancer through policy change, advocacy, and community activism. 

    Team Member and Volunteer

    State Advocacy Team of the Year – This award is presented to combined team members and volunteer teams that have worked together to make a significant impression in cancer-related public policy.

    New York: Thanks to this state team’s efforts, New York saw an increase of $2.5 million for the Cancer Services Program, a $7.5 million increase for tobacco control and smoking cessation programs, and raised the cigarette tax, making it the highest state tax in the nation. Their biggest win: a biomarker testing coverage bill was passed by the legislature and signed by Governor Kathy Hochul after a vigorous campaign. (Pictured above)

     

    ​

  • New rule set by the FDA goes into effect

    ​Mammogram providers must notify patients and referring physicians about breast density.

    Last year, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) published updates to the mammography regulations that included requiring mammography facilities to notify patients about the density of their breasts. Beginning Sept. 10, 2024, mammography facilities must provide all patients receiving a mammogram with one of two Federal breast density notification statements (either “not dense” or “dense”). Additionally, the mammogram report sent to referring providers must include an assessment of the patient’s breast density. 

    The ACS and ACS CAN released a joint statement last year commending the FDA for taking steps to modernize the Mammography Quality Standards Act (MQSA) which will help reduce breast cancer mortality. 

    Breast density is important for two main reasons:

    • Women who have dense breast tissue have a higher risk of breast cancer compared to women with less dense breast tissue. It’s unclear at this time why dense breast tissue is linked to breast cancer risk. It may be that dense breast tissue has more cells that can develop into abnormal cells.
    • Dense breast tissue also makes it harder for radiologists to see cancer on mammograms. Dense (fibrous and glandular) breast tissue looks white on a mammogram. Breast masses and cancers can also look white, so the dense tissue can make it harder to see them. In contrast, fatty tissue looks almost black on a mammogram, so it’s easier to see a tumor that looks white if most of the breast is fat tissue.

    Patient access to information about the impact that breast density and other factors can have on the risk for developing breast cancer is an important part of a comprehensive breast health strategy. 

    ACS has extensive information on breast density on cancer.org and plans to produce an educational video that will be out in time for the rule to go into effect. A flyer is also available on Brand Central.



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