Advocacy

Today, there are more than ten million people living with cancer. Decades of investment in research are paying off, and more and more people are winning the battle against this disease. It's time to deal with the issues they face.

The LAF sponsors national advocacy initiatives to help the voice of the cancer community be heard in Washington. By educating lawmakers and the public, LAF helps raise awareness about the health policy issues facing cancer survivors and their loved ones.

You can join Lance and make your voice heard by supporting the following initiatives:

• Increased funding for federal cancer survivorship programs
• Increased access to quality care
• Reduced disparities in treatment

You can also be a part of LIVESTRONG Day, our grassroots advocacy initiative to unify people affected by cancer on a national level and in local communities across the country.  LIVESTRONG Day 2007 is Wednesday, May 16.  Learn about LIVESTRONG Day.

Increased Funding for Federal Cancer Survivorship Programs

The number of cancer survivors increases every year but federal spending on cancer survivorship programs has not kept pace.  The Administration's most recent budget proposal featured flat funding for most federal cancer programs at the National Cancer Institute (NCI) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).  The LAF supports efforts to provide federal cancer survivorship programs at NCI and CDC with the necessary resources.

Learn more about increased funding for the NCI and CDC

Increased Access to Quality Care

The LAF supports identifying and addressing cancer survivorship needs to improve the overall experience and quality of life of people living with cancer.  All cancer patients should have timely access to the latest and most effective treatments, including clinical trials, if appropriate.  Quality care and services include access to quality treatment, effective pain and symptom management, and quality end-of-life care and services.

 Learn about the Patient Navigator Outreach and Chronic Disability Prevention Act
 
Reduce Disparities in Treatment

Cancer treatment is complex and differs from person to person based on his or her specific situation and needs.  Unfortunately, many cancer survivors face economic and insurance barriers to accessing proper health care.  Uninsured and underinsured survivors often have needs for their cancer treatment that go unmet.  The LAF supports policies that improve access to appropriate treatments and services delivered in a timely manner for all cancer survivors.