TOPEKA, Kan. – A recent poll by the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) shows 82% of Kansas voters believe all Americans, regardless of the type of health insurance they have, should have access to affordable cancer screening and treatment close to home. This attitude is also seen when 92% of likely voters agree (71% strongly) with the statement: “Families across the country are feeling squeezed by rising healthcare and insurance costs. Leaders should focus on making care more affordable and protecting access to health services people depend on.”
Conducted by Lake Research Partners and the Tarrance Group, this poll is a part of ACS CAN’s national Cancer Votes campaign—the country’s leading voter education program for cancer-related issues and policies.
“With more than two million people in the U.S. expected to be diagnosed with cancer this year, including 16,680 here in Kansas, it’s more important than ever for voters to make their voices heard on the healthcare issues that matter to them most,” said Megan Word, ACS CAN Kansas government relations director. “Policy decisions stand at the very core of many barriers people face during their cancer diagnosis and treatment. Whether it’s voting to support lifesaving cancer research, increase access to healthcare and cancer screenings, or protecting youth from the dangers of tobacco products, voters have the power to make cancer issues a top priority this election season.
In the poll, 64% of likely voters in Kansas support a tobacco tax increase whose revenue would be dedicated to programs that prevent tobacco use.
“Kansas voters clearly understand the importance of access to affordable health coverage and want their lawmakers to raise tobacco taxes,” said Word. “Every Kansan should learn more about these critical healthcare issues and find out where their candidates stand. ACS CAN is working to get candidates for Kansas governor on the record.”
Individuals can register to vote, find their polling location, and learn more about the Cancer Votes program and upcoming local events by visiting cancervotes.org. ACS CAN is strictly nonpartisan and does not endorse, oppose, or contribute to any candidate or political party.
Full polling memo here.
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About ACS CAN
The American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) advocates for evidence-based public policies to reduce the cancer burden for everyone. We engage our volunteers across the country to make their voices heard by policymakers at every level of government. We believe everyone should have a fair and just opportunity to prevent, detect, treat, and survive cancer. Since 2001, as the American Cancer Society’s nonprofit, nonpartisan advocacy affiliate, ACS CAN has successfully advocated for billions of dollars in cancer research funding, expanded access to quality affordable health care, and advanced proven tobacco control measures. We stand with our volunteers, working to make cancer a top priority for policymakers in cities, states and our nation’s capital. Join the fight by visiting www.fightcancer.org.
ACS CAN, 655 15th Street, NW, Suite 503Washington, DC 20005