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.
 

Take Action

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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MEDIA ADVISORY FOR SUNDAY EVENT: Light Display to Glow in Honor and Remembrance of Those Impacted by Cancer

August 25, 2026
North Carolina

RALEIGH, N.C. – The American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) invites the community to join the annual Lights of Hope event at the North Carolina State Capitol on Sunday, August 30 from 7:15-8:15 p.m. to honor lives touched by cancer and champion the need for

New Billboard Thanks Congress for Helping 18 Million Cancer Survivors Celebrate America's 250th

August 24, 2026
Wisconsin

MADISON, Wis. – The American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) has placed a billboard in Madison to thank Congress for demonstrating a strong commitment to cancer prevention and cures. The billboard reads, “18M cancer survivors are here for America's 250th because of you. Thank you Congress for

Mike Rogers Meets with Michigan Cancer Advocates to Discuss Policies to Reduce Cancer Burden

August 20, 2026
Michigan

Michigan cancer survivors and American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) volunteers gathered with candidate Mike Rogers to discuss cancer in Michigan and policies that can reduce the cancer burden for everyone.

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.

Cancer Research Funding Resources

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

August 21, 2026

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 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.