Cancer Research Funding

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Cancer Survivors

Cancer Research

Cancer research saves lives and makes more time for survivors.

By investing in the research of today, Congress can help prevent, detect, and treat many of the cancers of tomorrow, creating countless moments for patients and their loved ones in the process.

Every major breakthrough in the fight against cancer has one thing in common: the research was in some way funded by the federal government's National Institutes of Health and the National Cancer Institute.

Increased funding for cancer research lengthens and saves lives and must be a top budget priority for Congress.
 

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Caroline standing in front of the Capitol
National

Caroline is living proof that cancer research saves lives. Sign the petition today.

At 28 years old, Caroline was diagnosed with a rare and aggressive cancer. Thanks to a surgical technique made possible by cancer research, Caroline survived and is a living a full life with her two daughters. Sign the petition today to urge Congress to increase funding for cancer research.

Sign the petition here.
National

Urge your senators to prioritize cancer research funding.

Advocates like you spoke up. U.S. senators are now writing their version of the spending bill, and we need to build on this momentum for a stronger investment in cancer research.

 

Contact your senators today.
National

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.

Contact your member of Congress today

Latest Updates

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New National Poll Shows Overwhelming Bipartisan Support for Ensuring Access to Cancer Care and Investing in Research Funding; High Levels of Concern Over Tobacco Usage

August 13, 2026
National

A new national poll commissioned by the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) found that likely 2026 voters from both parties overwhelmingly support people having access to cancer screening and care, as well as support for the federal government continuing to invest in cancer research.

New Poll: Majority of North Carolina Voters Support Affordable Access to Cancer Care and Continued Investments in Federal Research Funding

August 13, 2026
North Carolina

RALEIGH, N.C. – August 13, 2026 – A recent poll by the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) shows 84% of North Carolina voters believe all Americans, regardless of the type of health insurance they have, should have access to affordable cancer screening and treatment close to home.

New Poll: Majority of Georgia Voters Support Affordable Access to Cancer Care and Continued Investments in Federal Research Funding

August 13, 2026
Georgia

ATLANTA – A recent poll by the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) shows 85% of Georgia voters believe all Americans, regardless of the type of health insurance they have, should have access to affordable cancer screening and treatment close to home. Further, nearly all (96%) believe that

New Poll: Majority of Maine Voters Support Affordable Access to Cancer Care and Continued Investments in Federal Research Funding

August 13, 2026
Maine

American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network Poll Shows Cancer is Top of Mind for Mainers This Election Season

Cancer Research Funding Resources

ACS and ACS CAN Oppose OMB rule on grantmaking

July 13, 2026

ACS and ACS CAN have submitted joint comments opposing a proposed rule from OMB that would dramatically change how federal grants are made and managed.  The proposal would require political review of grants, make grants easy to cancel, and would erect significant barriers to DEI-related research.

ACS CAN Comments on NIH Strategic Plan

June 19, 2026

NIH plays a critical role in the cancer research ecosystem, driving basic discoveries, supporting research infrastructure, and funding critical research that would not be funded by any other entity. ACS CAN has provided recommendations to NIH as it develops its next 5-year strategic plan. 

Drug Pricing Reform Proposals: Considerations for Cancer Care

September 10, 2025

Drug therapies are the bedrock of cancer care. Making these therapies affordable, while continuing to encourage innovation of new treatments, is crucial to accomplishing the mission of the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) to end cancer as we know it, for everyone. ACS CAN has long fought for public policies that support both the affordability and availability of medically necessary prescription drugs.