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Fighting cancer through research is America at its best. Research has led to major advancements in prevention, early detection and treatment. These advancements have been a significant factor driving down the cancer death rate by 34% since 1991. Through cancer research, we can save more lives from cancer.  

However, progress in future discovery is at risk. Workforce reductions, proposals to decrease funding, a drop in the number of new grants approved for funding and more all jeopardize progress in the fight against cancer.  

Providing robust cancer research funding and ensuring patients can access the latest innovations through clinical trials must be priorities for lawmakers.  

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President's budget proposal falls short for cancer patients.

The president released his annual budget proposal calling for cuts to research funding. We can't afford to stand still in the fight against cancer. Contact your member of Congress and urge them to invest in cancer research.

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Tell Congress: Increase patient access to the latest advancements in cancer care

By passing the Clinical Trial Modernization Act, Congress can remove barriers to clinical trial participation and ensure more cancer patients have access to the latest scientific advancements and cutting-edge treatments.

Contact your member of Congress today
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How has cancer research funding impacted you?

Stories help demonstrate why cancer research funding is so important. If you've been impacted by advancements in cancer research or recent cuts to clinical trials, we want to hear from you.

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Latest Updates

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Bipartisan Legislation Aimed at Improving Access to Clinical Trials for Patients Introduced in the Senate

May 1, 2026
National

A new bill that would improve access to clinical trials was recently introduced in the U.S. Senate. Sponsored by Senators Tim Scott (R-S.C.) and Mark Warner (D-Va.), the Clinical Trial Modernization Act (S. 4440) would help reduce cost and geographic barriers, making it easier for patients to take part in clinical trials. U.S. Representatives Raul Ruiz (D-Calif.) and August Pfluger (R-Texas) introduced the House version (H.R. 3521) of this legislation in May 2025.

Congress Must Continue Bipartisan Commitment to Cancer Research and Prevention Funding Amid Insufficient Investment in President’s Budget

April 3, 2026
National

As the administration releases its proposed budget for Fiscal Year 2027, the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) is calling on Congress to maintain its longstanding bipartisan commitment to robust, increased investments in cancer research and prevention.

ACS CAN Applauds Passage of Key Provisions in Appropriations Package That Demonstrate Cancer Remains a National Priority

February 3, 2026

This week, Congress officially passed its FY26 appropriations bill that delivers major wins in the fight against cancer and reinforces that cancer remains a national priority. The package includes critical investments in cancer research and prevention programs, advancements in childhood cancer care, passage of the Nancy Gardner Sewell

New Legislation Would Make It Easier for Patients to Participate in Clinical Trials

May 20, 2025
National

New federal legislation that would make it easier for all cancer patients to participate in clinical trials was introduced today in the House of Representatives. Sponsored by U.S. Reps. Raul Ruiz (D-Calif.) and August Pfluger (R-Texas), the Clinical Trial Modernization Act would help remove cost and geographic hurdles that prevent patients from participating in clinical trials.

Cancer Research Resources

ACS CAN Supports Increased Research Funding in FY27

May 18, 2026

Increased investment at the National Institutes of Health (NIH), the National Cancer Institute (NCI), and level funding for Advanced Research Projects for Health (ARPA-H), in the fight against cancer year over year have been key to reducing the nation’s cancer mortality rate by 34% since 1991. To

ACS CAN Supports the Clinical Trial Modernization Act (H.R. 3521 / S. 4440)

May 22, 2025

The Clinical Trial Modernization Act (H.R. 3521 / S. 4440) increases access to clinical trials by allowing clinical trial sponsors to provide financial support to patients for costs associated with their trial participation, including medical cost-sharing like copays, and non-medical expenses such as travel, parking, food and lodging.

ACS CAN Comments on FDA Guidance on Integrating Randomized Controlled Trials into Routine Clinical Practice

December 15, 2024

ACS CAN submitted comments on draft U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) guidance on Integrating Randomized Controlled Trials for Drug and Biological Products into Routine Clinical Practice.