The American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network is urging legislators to prioritize passing legislation to ease the burden of cancer on Illinoisans as we mark World Cancer Day on Sunday.
The Cancer Society notes Colorectal cancer is the second-leading cause of cancer deaths in the US among men and women combined with 6,140 Illinois residents diagnosed and 2,090 that will pass away this year. Fortunately, colorectal cancer is one of the few cancers that can be prevented through screenings. Right now, the state’s colorectal cancer screening program is funded at $1 million annual and ACS CAN is asking that the funding be increased to $15 million annually to help more Illinoisans access care to help detect and treat colorectal cancer.
To further reduce the burden of cancer in Illinois ACS CAN is asking lawmakers to support legislation that will improve access to guideline recommended genetic testing for inherited gene mutations and evidence-based screenings by eliminating burdensome patient cost-sharing requirements. This would help ensure individuals have access to critical information regarding their cancer risk and the recommended cancer screenings based on that risk to catch possible cancer early.
Lastly, improving diversity and reducing barriers to clinical trials is essential in the fight against cancer. ACS CAN supports efforts to help the state better understand the nature and extent of underrepresentation by various demographic groups in clinical trials and take steps to increase diversity and reduce barriers to participation.
By passing these pieces of legislation ACS CAN says state lawmakers have an opportunity to help save lives and lessen the burden of a cancer diagnosis for those who will hear the words ‘you have cancer’ in the future.
