WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Representatives Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA) and Debbie Dingell (D-MI) introduced the bipartisan Knock Out Cancer Act. This legislation would provide a once-in-a-generation massive investment in cancer research funding, increasing cancer research funding allocated to the National Institutes of Health (NIH) by 25%, to reflect that cancer is the second leading cause of death in the U.S.
The Knock Out Cancer Act was introduced on the 50th Anniversary of the National Cancer Act of 1971, signed into law by President Richard Nixon. The National Cancer Act created the National Cancer Institute (NCI) and established the National Cancer Program at a time when cancer had become the nation’s second leading cause of death. Now, cancer is the leading killer globally, and more people will die from cancer this year than ever before. The National Cancer Act was transformative and created the infrastructure for the world-class cancer research enterprise we have today. With the long-overdue increase in funding for critical cancer research from the “K.O. Cancer Act,” we can build on the progress we have made and continue our mission to knock out cancer for good.
“In 1971, the National Cancer Act was signed into law, and our nation declared war on cancer,” said Rep. Fitzpatrick. “Fifty years later, we have made significant headway in the fight for a cure, but there is so much more work to be done. Current federal funding levels for cancer research do not match the rate at which people are suffering and dying from this lethal disease. I am proud to introduce the bipartisan “K.O. Cancer Act” for all of the victims, survivors, families, and friends whose lives have been impacted by cancer. As is the case for so many in America, this fight is personal to me. We must not stop until we eradicate this disease forever and spare parents, children, and families of the pains of cancer.”
“On the 50th anniversary of the National Cancer Act, we must redouble our efforts to battle cancer, which remains the second leading cause of death in the United States,” said Rep. Dingell. “The Knock Out Cancer Act will strengthen investments in research at the NIH to help develop innovative treatments and cures for cancers of all types, and I am proud to partner with Rep. Fitzpatrick on this legislation.”
Since entering Congress, Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick has advocated for cancer patients and their families in Bucks and Montgomery counties and beyond. As Co-Chair of the Congressional Cancer Caucus and author of the Fairness to Kids with Cancer Act, Rep. Fitzpatrick remains committed to supporting federal funding for cancer research, groundbreaking treatment, and eventually, a cure for cancers of all types.
Full text of the legislation can be found here.
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