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| Wilson Urges Funding for More Breast Cancer Research |
March 12, 2004 |
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Lawmaker Supports $150 Million for Research Effort
Albuquerque – Congresswoman Heather Wilson is working to fully fund breast cancer research.
Speaking at today’s meeting of the National Breast Cancer Coalition in Albuquerque, Wilson announced she is signing a letter urging a $150 million appropriation for the Peer-Reviewed Breast Cancer Research Program (BCRP), a research effort funded since 1992 through the Department of Defense.
“Breast cancer research holds out great hope for improving care,” Wilson said. “Beating this disease demands a coordinated effort from public and private research. I support this program as a successful model that brings scientists and patients together at every step.”
Wilson, a member of the House Health Subcommittee of the Energy and Commerce Committee, is also a cosponsor of the Breast Cancer and Environmental Research Act (H.R. 1746) which funds studies exploring links between breast cancer and environmental factors such as pesticides and one’s diet.
In 1998, Wilson cosponsored the Breast and Cervical Cancer Treatment Act (H.R. 3779), which ensured Medicaid coverage of breast or cervical cancer treatment for low-income women who are diagnosed through a federally-funded screening program.
Breast Cancer Facts
· 258,000 women are diagnosed with breast cancer each year in the U.S.
· 40,000 women die from breast cancer each year in the U.S.
· 1,200 women are diagnosed with breast cancer each year in New Mexico.
· 200 women die from breast cancer each year in New Mexico.
· Early detection and regular mammogram screenings for women over 40 enhance opportunities for successful treatment.
Facts about the Peer-Reviewed Breast Cancer Research Program
· The program has already resulted in the development of Herceptin, the first monoclonal antibody in cancer treatment.
· About 90 percent of appropriated funds go directly to competitive research grants.
· These grants target innovative research.
· BCRP brings clinical cancer trials to community settings, and supports research that brings therapies from the lab to the bedside.
· New Mexico has received 25 grants totaling $5 million since the program’s start in 1992.
Wilson thanked members of the National Breast Cancer Coalition, who are attending a four-day course on improving care in their communities. “I admire your passion for improving care, and share your commitment to saving lives from breast cancer through scientific breakthroughs,” Wilson said.
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