BUFFALO, NY –MARCH 11, 2023 – As budget discussions among state legislators pick up speed at the Capitol, Erie County religious, health and community leaders are set to rally alongside cancer patients and survivors on Monday, March 13. Following the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network’s (ACS CAN) release of local data outlining the link between tobacco use and cancer diagnoses and deaths, Tobacco Free Erie & Niagara Counties have organized for local leaders to convene and address the policy pathways to reduce tobacco use and, with it, cancer incidence and death.
Speakers will discuss the impact these data have on the Erie County community, particularly residents of color who are disproportionately impacted by tobacco-related illness and disease, as well as Governor Hochul’s tobacco proposals, which include an end to the sale of all flavored tobacco products and menthol cigarettes and a $1 per pack increase on the state cigarette tax. The groups represented will call on the state legislature to take action on these proposals and increase funding for tobacco cessation programs, like the New York State Tobacco Control Program.
WHAT: Tobacco Free Erie & Niagara Counties Press Conference: It's Not Just Menthol
WHO: Leaders & advocates from across Erie County to address staggering local cancer data and policies to reduce residents’ risk of developing the disease
WHERE: Delavan Grider Community Center, 877 E. Delavan Ave, Buffalo, NY
WHEN: Monday, March 13, 10:00am; advised that media arrive at 9:45am
Attendees will hear from representatives of the Delevan Grider Community Center, CAI Global, Buffalo Center for Health Equity, the Buffalo Branch of the NAACP, Roswell Park Cancer Institute as well as cancer survivors and health advocates. Participating groups and individuals to stress the importance of the proposed legislation in the fight to end all suffering and death from cancer and the health inequities that permeate cancer care.
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About ACS CAN
The American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) makes cancer a top priority for policymakers at every level of government. ACS CAN empowers volunteers across the country to make their voices heard to influence evidence-based public policy change that improves the lives of people with cancer and their families. We believe everyone should have a fair and just opportunity to prevent, find, 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’re more determined than ever to stand together with our volunteers to end cancer as we know it, for everyone. Join the fight by visiting www.fightcancer.org.