In this section, you can find information on timely cancer policy issues, the current status of national legislation about cancer, as well as an introduction about the most effective ways to communicate with lawmakers and other decisionmakers.

ASCO Fact Sheet: "The Crisis in Cancer Research Funding": The nation's investment in cancer research is paying off. Cancer rates are decreasing, survival rates are increasing, and treatment is becoming more targeted and less toxic. But we are now in the midst of the longest sustained period of flat funding for cancer research in history. This fact sheet describes the current state of cancer research funding at NIH and NCI, how this is affecting cancer research programs, and what we need to do to ensure progress in cancer research in years to come.

Researching Current Policy Issues: This section includes timely information on legislative and regulatory issues and ASCO’s advocacy programs. ASCO’s website includes a host of legislative and regulatory resources that can help oncologists, as well as people who are interested in cancer issues, find current information on issues that have a substantial impact on the cancer community. The Society’s advocacy programs are designed to educate Congress, the media, and the general public about the effects of legislation on the ability of oncology professionals to provide high-quality cancer care.

Communicating with Decision Makers: Each year, Congress makes decisions that affect the broad scope of issues relating to cancer care, including prevention, education, research, treatment and payment decisions. In order to influence Congress’ decision-making process, citizens concerned with important health care issues – both patients and medical professionals alike – need to get involved by contacting their elected officials in the House of Representatives and Senate. While the goals of advocacy are simple in principle – to educate and influence – effective advocacy requires a basic understanding of the legislative process and environment.

The following websites provide information for anyone interested in Congressional activities on cancer issues and how you can provide your input to elected leaders.

ASCO’s Grassroots Action Center. The ASCO Grassroots Action Center includes links to the latest ASCO alerts on Congressional activities, as well as contact information for elected officials.

U.S. Senate. This website contains information on the U.S. Senate, including facts about Senate leadership, committees, and members, as well as information about legislation that is currently being considered and votes that have occurred.

U.S. House of Representatives. This website contains information on the U.S. House of Representatives, including facts about House leadership, committees, and members, as well as information about legislation that is currently being considered and votes that have occurred.

Library of Congress’ THOMAS. This searchable website contains legislative information from the Library of Congress, including the status of all legislation introduced in Congress.