Higgins hails release of National Cancer Plan

‘Aggressive agenda’ outlines US strategy to prevent cancer 

Congressman Brian Higgins, who serves as co-chair of the bipartisan Cancer Caucus, hailed the release of a National Cancer Plan, which sets “an aggressive agenda to cut cancer deaths in half over the next 25 years.”

“This outlines a trajectory for the ‘Cancer Moonshot.’ One that fights cancer from every angle,” Higgins said. “It gives researchers goals, communities prevention tools, and families facing cancer hope for more time with their loved ones. I look forward to working with Congress and the Western New York community to advance this plan.”

Higgins, a leader in pushing for a substantial federal investment in fighting cancer, was at the White House last year as President Joe Biden and first lady Jill Biden relaunched the “Cancer Moonshot.” Higgins co-led introduction of the Lung Cancer Screening Saves Lives Act, delivered $1.5 million for new CT scanner equipment at Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, and is outspoken on cancer issues through his role on the House of Representatives Ways and Means subcommittee on health.

Higgins noted Western New York federally qualified health clinics, local companies, research institutions, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, and members of the community will play important roles in advancing this initiative.

The plan involves strategies to address the following eight goals:

• Prevent cancer
• Detect cancers early
• Develop effective treatments
• Eliminate inequities
• Deliver optimal care
• Engage every person
• Maximize data utility
• Optimize the workforce

For more information, visit nationalcancerplan.cancer.gov.