Susan G. Komen for the Cure has a long and rich history in public policy advocacy that spans more than 20 years. In order to achieve our mission of eradicating breast cancer as a life-threatening disease by advancing research, education, screening and treatment, Komen for the Cure believes that scientific progress must be complemented by sound public policy. In this regard, the Komen works to influence public policy-makers at the federal, state and local levels to increase public investment in quality breast health and breast cancer care.

 As part of our advocacy efforts, we have established The Susan G. Komen for the Cure Advocacy Alliance.  The Advocacy Alliance is a sister organization to Susan G. Komen for the Cure®, and is a voice for change on Capitol Hill, in state legislatures and on the campaign trail. With the help of nearly 200,000 Komen Champions and Komen's network of 122 domestic affiliates, we are aggressively seeking increased funding for research and greater access to screening and treatment. The Komen Advocacy Alliance engages policymakers and leaders at all levels of government to advocate for an increased investment in breast cancer research and greater access to breast health services.  

Visit the Advocacy Alliance website for the latest information on national and state actions.  Click the link below and TAKE ACTION to help reignite the war on cancer!   Take Action Today!!! 

Susan G. Komen for the Cure traveled to the nation’s capital April 30, 2009, to join nearly 300 Komen for the Cure advocates from across the country to call on Congress to reignite the nation’s war on cancer.  While on Capitol Hill for the day, the Lubbock Area Affiliate delegation met with representatives from the South Plains area and joined other delegations from across Texas to meet with Senator Kay Bailey Hutchinson and Senator John Cornyn.  

 In addition to pushing for a greater investment in cancer research, the delegation highlighted two recently introduced bills – the 21^st Century Cancer ALERT ACT and the Breast Cancer EARLY Act – that tackle the cancer crisis in several important ways, which together will help save lives and get us closer to discovering and delivering the cures to cancer.   

 Introduced by Senators Edward Kennedy (D-MA), Kay Bailey Hutchison (R-TX) and Diane Feinstein (D-CA), the Cancer ALERT Act, which stands for Access to Life-saving Early Detection, Research and Treatment, focuses on:

• Early Detection, by placing an emphasis on access to early detection tools available today and promoting the discovery and development of biomarkers to detect cancers in the future at the earliest possible stage when cancer is most treatable. 
•  Research, by promoting public-private partnerships and collaboration between government agencies.  The bill also has a focus on translational research so new discoveries and breakthroughs in the laboratory make their way to patients’ bedsides as quickly as possible.
• Treatment, by expanding access to clinical trials, patient navigation services, and screening and treatment for colorectal cancer, which together will improve access to cancer care for underserved populations.

 The Breast Cancer EARLY Act, which stands for Education and Awareness Requires Learning Young, is an effort to inspire young women to take control of their breast health. Introduced recently by Florida Congresswoman Debbie Wasserman-Schultz, who unveiled her own story of survival, and numerous co-sponsors, the EARLY Act will initiate an aggressive public education campaign about breast cancer and women under age 40 – with an emphasis on women at higher risk due to their race, ethnicity or genetic heritage.  Komen for the Cure supports this bill as part of its ongoing effort at promoting overall breast self awareness.  

Texas Affiliate Representatives pictured with Senator Kay Bailey Hutchinson