About the Bill

In the 37 years since the national declaration of a “war on cancer,” we have made significant gains in our battle against the disease – but we are far from victory.

Every day, more than 1,500 Americans die of cancer. Nearly one out of two men and one out of three women will develop cancer in their lifetime. When you account for those individuals’ family members and friends, nearly everyone in America is touched by cancer.

It is time for legislation to address the shortcomings in the structure of cancer research, treatment, and follow-up care. That is why Senators Edward Kennedy (D-MA) and Kay Bailey Hutchison (R-TX) are renewing our war on cancer.

The Kennedy-Hutchison cancer bill will aim to expand and accelerate our search for cures, more effective treatments, and better preventive measures. It will also address some of the ongoing needs of the nearly 12 million Americans living with cancer today. To be notified when the bill is introduced, sign up for news and updates.

Some of the key challenges this bill is expected to address include:

• Advancing cancer research and removing barriers that impede it;

• Expanding programs to prevent cancer;

• Improving access to early detection measures and early treatment;

• Reducing disparities in cancer treatment;

• Increasing enrollment in clinical trials;

• Encouraging accelerated delivery of medications and treatment from the laboratory to the patient;

• Improving the coordination of care during and after treatment;

• Encouraging workforce growth in oncology in research and clinical services;

• Assuring access to affordable cancer care.

Sign up for news about the bill when it is introduced and moving through Congress.

What’s Happening Now?

September 8, 2008 - Congress returns from its summer break. Sens. Kennedy and Hutchison expect to introduce their cancer bill soon.

May 8, 2008 - The Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee holds a hearing to discuss the bill. Advocates and cancer survivors, including Lance Armstrong and Elizabeth Edwards, testify about the need for progress and reform in all areas of cancer research and treatment.