Legislation to Ensure Access to Life Saving Breast Cancer Care

Susan G. Komen^®, the world’s leading breast cancer organization, today commended members of the U.S. House and Senate for reintroducing the Screening for Communities to Receive Early and Equitable Needed Services (SCREENS) for Cancer Act. The legislation is led by Representatives Joe Morelle (D-NY-25) and Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA-01).

The SCREENS for Cancer Act reauthorizes a critical program – the National Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program (NBCCEDP) – that helps women across the country with low incomes who do not have adequate insurance gain access to timely breast and cervical cancer screening, diagnostic, and treatment services.

“Access to timely, high-quality screening and diagnostic services is critical for saving lives, yet far too many people—especially those without adequate insurance—face delays or are unable to access this essential care,” said Molly Guthrie, VP of Policy & Advocacy at Susan G. Komen. “The SCREENS for Cancer Act would help enable earlier detection of breast cancer when treatment options are more effective, and the prognosis is better. Komen is grateful for the leadership of Congressmen Morelle and Fitzpatrick on this legislation and urges Congress to pass it quickly.”

"Cancer has touched my family in the most personal way, and I know firsthand the fear and uncertainty that comes with a diagnosis,” said Rep. Morelle. “Far too many people—especially those in underserved communities—face barriers to lifesaving screenings that could catch cancer early and save lives. I’m proud to introduce the bipartisan SCREENS for Cancer Act with Rep. Fitzpatrick, which will expand access to breast and cervical cancer screenings, ensuring that more people get the care they need. Early detection saves lives, and no one should go without screenings because of their income or insurance status."

Since its founding in 1991, NBCCEDP-funded programs have served more than 6.4 million individuals across the country and provided more than 16.5 million breast and cervical cancer screening examinations, resulting in the diagnosis of nearly 80,000 invasive breast cancers. The program also provides public education, outreach, patient navigation and care coordination to increase breast and cervical cancer screening rates and reach underserved, vulnerable populations.

“Every year, too many lives are lost because cancer is detected too late. By modernizing and expanding the National Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program, we are taking a step forward in removing barriers that prevent too many women—especially those in underserved communities—from getting the screenings that could save their lives. As Co-Chair of the House Cancer Caucus, I remain committed to advancing bipartisan solutions that put prevention and access at the forefront, and I thank Rep. Morelle for his partnership in this critical initiative,” said Rep. Fitzpatrick.

This bill had widespread, bipartisan support in the 118^th Congress and passed key committees in both the Senate and House of Representatives. Susan G. Komen urges the 119^th Congress to pass the SCREENS for Cancer Act without delay. Immediate action is critical to make meaningful progress in the fight against breast cancer and to ensure that all Americans have access to the screenings they need for early, life-saving intervention.

Learn more about Susan G. Komen’s Center for Public Policy at: https://www.komen.org/how-to-help/advocacy/center-for-public-policy/

About Susan G. Komen^®

Susan G. Komen^® is the world’s leading nonprofit breast cancer organization, working to save lives and end breast cancer forever. Komen has an unmatched, comprehensive 360-degree approach to fighting this disease across all fronts and supporting millions of people in the U.S. and in countries worldwide. We advocate for patients, drive research breakthroughs, improve access to high-quality care, offer direct patient support and empower people with trustworthy information. Founded by Nancy G. Brinker, who promised her sister, Susan G. Komen, that she would end the disease that claimed Suzy’s life, Komen remains committed to supporting those affected by breast cancer today, while tirelessly searching for tomorrow’s cures. Visit komen.org or call 1-877 GO KOMEN. Connect with us on social at www.komen.org/contact-us/follow-us/.

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“The SCREENS for Cancer Act would help enable earlier detection of breast cancer when treatment options are more effective, and the prognosis is better."