American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network
Statement from Megan Word, American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) Nebraska government relations director:
“As lawmakers dive into the 2025 legislative session, ACS CAN urges lawmakers to prioritize passing legislation to ease the burden of cancer on Nebraskans.
“ACS CAN calls on the legislature to improve coverage of comprehensive biomarker testing, a game changer in the fight against cancer. Progress in improving cancer outcomes increasingly involves the use of precision medicine, which uses information about a person’s own genes or proteins to better diagnose and treat diseases like cancer. Biomarker testing is an important step to accessing precision medicine which includes targeted therapies that can lead to improved survivorship and better quality of life for cancer patients. To date, 20 states have enacted laws to ensure insurance policies keep pace with advances in biomarker testing, and Nebraska should be the next.
“The American Cancer Society estimates that 11,790 Nebraskans will be diagnosed with cancer this year. Ensuring patients who could benefit have access to biomarker testing gives them the information they need to best treat their cancer.”
About ACS CAN
The American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) makes cancer a top priority for policymakers at every level of government. ACS CAN empowers volunteers across the country to make their voices heard to influence evidence-based public policy change that improves the lives of people with cancer and their families. We believe everyone should have a fair and just opportunity to prevent, find, treat, and survive cancer. Since 2001, as the American Cancer Society’s nonprofit, nonpartisan advocacy affiliate, ACS CAN has successfully advocated for billions of dollars in cancer research funding, expanded access to quality affordable health care, and advanced proven tobacco control measures. We’re more determined than ever to stand together with our volunteers to end cancer as we know it, for everyone. Join the fight by visiting www.fightcancer.org.