Legislation to Improve Lung Cancer Research for Women Advances

ACR^® as part of a coalition of national organizations expressed appreciation to the U.S. Senate for passing the Women and Lung Cancer Research and Preventive Services Act, S. 1157. In a letter to Congress, the coalition recognized Sens. Tina Smith (D-MN) and Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV) for their bipartisan leadership on the legislation.

S. 1157 addresses long-standing gaps in knowledge about lung cancer among women by requiring a comprehensive review of current research, identifying unmet needs and opportunities, and mandating a report to Congress. This could help physicians deliver more effective care.

The House passed a companion bill earlier this year, H.R. 2319. Before the legislation can become law, however, the two chambers must agree on final language. While both bills call for a research review, the Senate-passed version goes further by allowing HHS to update federal programs and activities related to lung cancer in women based on the findings.

One likely next step is for the House to consider the Senate-passed bill. Both chambers must pass identical legislation before it is sent to the president for signature into law.

If you have questions or for more information, contact Ashley Walton, ACR Government Affairs Director.