WASHINGTON, D.C. -- June 18, 2010 -- The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services today announced the allotment of $250 million for fiscal year 2010 for prevention programs that are critical to the fight against cancer. The funds come out of the Prevention and Public Health Fund, which was created by the Affordable Care Act. Following is a statement from the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN):
"The funding announced today includes critical investments in community-based prevention strategies that will help to improve public health and wellness and advance our progress in preventing cancer. ACS CAN is pleased that $126 million will be invested to expand community efforts to lower tobacco use and obesity rates, increase levels of physical activity and improve nutrition. This investment will build on the $650 million allotted for these purposes in last year’s American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.
"The remainder of the funding announced today will focus on improvements in the public health infrastructure, research and tracking, and training of the public health workforce -- all critical components in building a healthier and more productive population.
"As the leading voice of patients, ACS CAN strongly supported the emphasis on prevention and public health in the Affordable Care Act. The law's $15-billion investment over the next 10 years will help transform our 'sick care' system into one that focuses on disease prevention and management as well as improved wellness and quality of life."
FOR MORE INFORMATION, CONTACT:
Steven Weiss
(202) 661-5711
[email protected]
Alissa Havens
(202) 661-5772
[email protected]