WASHINGTON, D.C.—Rep. Anna G. Eshoo (D-Palo Alto) released the following statement after the House passed her bill to improve the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of cancers with high mortality rates, such as pancreatic cancer. The Pancreatic Cancer Research and Education Act (H.R. 733) directs the National Cancer Institute to develop a long-term strategic plan for addressing "recalcitrant cancers," or those with a high mortality rate and few treatment options.

"More than 37,000 Americans will be diagnosed with pancreatic cancer this year, and hundreds of thousands more will be diagnosed with other recalcitrant forms of the disease," Rep. Eshoo said. "Sadly, far fewer will survive because we have no early detection tools and few effective treatments. My legislation will bring together the finest minds in our country with expertise in each recalcitrant cancer, creating a roadmap for navigating research on early detection, new diagnostic tools, and even cures. With 293 bipartisan cosponsors, I'm exceedingly proud of the pancreatic cancer advocates in my District and around the country who have helped to make this bill a reality."

"On behalf of the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network and all those affected by pancreatic cancer, we applaud Rep. Eshoo for her leadership and dedication to moving the Recalcitrant Cancer Research Act, formerly known as the Pancreatic Cancer Research & Education Act, through Congress," stated Julie Fleshman, president and CEO of the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network. "The passage of the legislation is a critical step towards increasing the five year survival rate of pancreatic cancer, which is just six percent—the lowest among leading causes of cancer death in the United States. The Congresswoman's unwavering support of the entire pancreatic cancer community is truly appreciated."

Background:

Under Rep. Eshoo's bill, NCI is tasked with taking a new look at recalcitrant cancers by developing a scientific framework for each one. NCI will include outside experts and researchers to bring together the best available knowledge and research to conquer these difficult to understand cancers. NCI will then use these frameworks to guide future research decisions and grants to ensure there is a coordinated, focused approach for advancing research goals.

Rep. Eshoo has introduced the Pancreatic Cancer Research and Education Act in the previous two Congresses. In the last Congress, the bill enjoyed the support of 247 bipartisan House Members. Rep. Eshoo's bill has the support of 293 bipartisan cosponsors in the House, more than any of the 934 bills referred to the Energy and Commerce Committee in the 112th Congress.

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