On Thursday, cancer survivors, patients and volunteer advocates with the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) gathered with congressional candidate JoAnna Mendoza to discuss cancer in Arizona and policies that can help in the fight against the disease.
This effort was part of ACS CAN’s national Cancer Votes program – the nation’s leading cancer voter education program informing the public and candidates about the actions lawmakers need to take to make the fight against cancer a national priority.
Mendoza is challenging incumb
ent Rep. Juan Ciscomani for CD-6 which covers portions of Tucson and a large area of southeast Arizona.
Maria Martinez, cancer survivor and resident of Arizona’s 6th Congressional District, shared her story with Mendoza during Thursday’s roundtable.
“As a survivor, I know firsthand the impact public policies can have in the fight against cancer,” said Martinez. “When I was diagnosed, accessing the care that I needed wasn’t easy despite having insurance. Surviving cancer shouldn’t come with financial obstacles and hurdles. All Arizonans should have the opportunity to prevent, detect, treat and survive cancer no matter where they live or how much money they make. I hope whichever candidate is elected keeps their promise and makes fighting cancer a national priority.”
Cancer is one of the most prevalent diseases in Arizona with approximately 44,600 residents expected to be diagnosed in 2026. Separately, more than 13,800 residents are expected to die from the disease this year, according to the American Cancer Society (ACS).
ACS CAN acknowledges both Mendoza and Rep. Ciscomani for recently signing its ‘Cancer Promise’ pledge which notes their support for funding cancer research and prevention programs and protecting access to affordable healthcare . The pledge serves as a public record of where candidates stand on certain priorities. It is shared with thousands of volunteer advocates, media and the public.
ACS CAN does not endorse or oppose any candidate. The goal is to emphasize the importance of cancer policies to lawmakers and the public.
Advocates have extended an invite to Rep. Ciscomani to take part in a similar event.