Survivors, Patients Work with State Lawmakers to Maintain Texas’ Leadership in Cancer Research

AUSTIN, TEXAS – FEBRUARY 26, 2025 - Volunteers from across Texas, including cancer survivors, patients and caregivers gathered at the Texas Capitol on Wednesday for ‘Cancer Action Day,’ an event hosted by the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN). During meetings with state lawmakers and staff, volunteer advocates highlighted the impact the Cancer Research and Prevention Institute of Texas (CPRIT) is having on Texans and expressed support for sustaining funding for the program.   

First created in 2007 and approved by Texas voters, CPRIT continues to play a crucial role in reducing the cancer burden. Because of CPRIT, Texas now holds the distinction of being the second-largest public funder of cancer research in the country.  

“Texas is leading the way in cancer research,” said James Gray, ACS CAN senior government relations director. “Texans directly benefit from the cancer screening and prevention programs established through CPRIT. Sustaining funding means maintaining progress. We are pleased with state lawmakers who realize the importance of this investment and look forward to growing our partnership so future generations can benefit from the institute.”  

Established by the state Legislature, the main mission of CPRIT is to expedite innovation in cancer research and product development and enhance access to evidence-based prevention programs throughout the state. Much of the funding from the institute is awarded to Texas universities and research organizations to help further that mission.  

Dr. Wenshe Ray Liu, Ph.D, researcher at Texas A&M, stage four cancer survivor, and ACS CAN volunteer, attended Cancer Action Day on Wednesday. He shared the story of his cancer journey and work of establishing the Texas A&M Drug Discovery Center, which is thriving today because of grants awarded through CPRIT.  

“Once I learned I was cancer-free, I dedicated my life to cancer research,” said Dr. Liu. “Today, my lab is fully committed to cancer drug discovery, in part, because of funding from CPRIT. As a survivor, I know the importance of prevention, early detection, and treatment. As a researcher, I see the impact CPRIT has on all three. I’m encouraged by the lawmakers who realize the importance of the institute and want to highlight its benefits alongside ACS CAN.”  

Efforts made through CPRIT to improve outcomes related to cancer prevention and treatment can lead to a significant reduction in cancer incidence and severity over time. It is far less expensive to screen for cancer and treat it in its early stages. Not only are treatment expenses likely to be lower for early-stage diagnoses, but morbidity and mortality losses are also reduced. 

According to the American Cancer Society, in 2025, more than 150,000 Texans will be newly diagnosed with cancer, with more than 45,000 expected to die from the disease.  

While data shows the cancer mortality rate continues to decline nationwide, alarming inequities in rates persist, most notably among Native American and Black people. Furthermore, recent data indicates cancer is the second-leading cause of death among Hispanic/Latino people. Compared with non-Hispanic White people, Hispanic men and women are less likely to be diagnosed with the most common cancers (lung, colorectal, breast, and prostate), but more likely to develop cancer in the liver, stomach, and cervix. 

For more information on how to get involved in the fight against cancer in Texas, visit fightcancer.org/Texas.