WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, the U.S. Senate voted to confirm Erica Schwartz, M.D., as the next Director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
A statement from Lisa Lacasse, president of the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) follows:
“The CDC plays a vital role in the fight against cancer by addressing primary cancer risk factors like tobacco use and exposure to secondhand smoke, promoting early detection through lifesaving evidence-based screening programs, ensuring robust data collection on cancer cases and risk factors and providing access to lifesaving information, resources and care to all communities nationwide. The CDC provides states, territories, tribes and tribal organizations with critically needed funding and technical assistance to support their cancer prevention and control programs, as well as direct-to-consumer education and services. With more than 2 million people in America expected to be diagnosed with cancer in 2026, CDC must continue its unwavering commitment to science and prevention.
“ACS CAN stands ready to work with Director Schwartz and her team, as we have with all past administrations, to ensure that we continue making progress toward ending cancer as we know it, for everyone.”