Lung Cancer Alliance Applauds New Legislation Funding Lung Cancer Research

Main Category: Lung Cancer
Article Date: 09 Jan 2009 - 0:00 PDT

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Today, Lung Cancer Alliance-California (LCA-CA), hailed California Assembly Member Tom Torlakson (D-11th District) for his continued leadership in introducing legislation providing funding for lung cancer research. For the third consecutive year, legislation that would fund lung cancer research is being considered in the California Legislature.

"On behalf of the entire lung cancer community, we thank Assembly Member Torlakson for his willingness to again step forward and acknowledge the needs of all those touched by lung cancer," said Mike Stevens, LCA-CA Co-chair and lung cancer survivor.

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths both nationally and in California. Lung cancer claims more lives each year than breast, prostate, and colon cancers -- combined. In 2008 an estimated 18,060 Californians will be diagnosed with lung cancer and 13,100 will die from the disease. Over 70% are diagnosed at late stage accounting for the low 15% five-year survival rate.

"AB 89 will provide much needed funding for lung cancer research while saving our state billions in tobacco-related health care costs," said Assembly Member Torlakson. "This creative solution will help protect our most precious resources -- our children and our health."

Assembly Bill 89 (AB 89), introduced today, imposes an additional $2.10 tax on a pack of cigarettes and will generate approximately $2 billion annually that will fund lung cancer research, tobacco cessation services, education, children's health care and general health care.

"In order to address this disease in its entirety, we must couple tobacco control and prevention with increased funding for lung cancer research. AB 89 funds both," said Stevens.

"LCA-CA will continue to look for every opportunity to ensure that funding for lung cancer research is provided for in the state of California," continued Stevens. "We will continue working with the Bonnie J. Addario Lung Cancer Foundation and other public health organizations to meet this goal."

Lung Cancer Alliance, http://www.lungcanceralliance.org, is the only national non profit organization dedicated exclusively to patient support and advocacy for those living with or at risk for lung cancer. Lung Cancer Alliance is committed to reversing decades of stigma and neglect by empowering patients, elevating awareness and changing health policy.

Lung Cancer Alliance
http://www.lungcanceralliance.org