RALEIGH, N.C. – August 13, 2026 – A recent poll by the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) shows 84% of North Carolina 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. Further, almost all (93%) believe that healthcare policies should make it easier, not harder, for people to get care.
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 2 million people in the U.S. expected to be diagnosed with cancer this year, including nearly 75,000 here in North Carolina, it’s more important than ever for voters to make their voices heard on the healthcare issues that matter to them most,” said North Carolina ACS CAN Government Relations Director John Broome. “Policy decisions create many of the barriers people face during their cancer diagnosis and treatment. Voters have the power to make cancer issues a top priority this election season by looking at candidates’ support for lifesaving cancer research, access to health care and cancer screenings and tobacco prevention.
“This new poll makes clear that voters want to see candidates who prioritize increasing access to affordable healthcare and spending on cancer research. 81% of likely voters say it is extremely or very important for the federal government to prioritize strong and consistent funding for cancer research, prevention and detection programs.”
Additionally, 70% of voters are concerned about young people using tobacco products, with 67% supporting tobacco prevention programs to protect our kids and 62% supporting an increase to the tobacco tax.
“North Carolina voters clearly understand the importance of affordable health coverage and want their lawmakers to take action,” said ACS CAN volunteer Liisa Smith. “Every North Carolinian should learn more about these critical health care issues and find out where their candidates stand.”
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.
To view the full polling memo, click here.