Power. Progress. Prevention.
The Foundation’s Advocacy Newsletter
June 30, 2017
Senate health care bill in jeopardy?
The current version of the Senate bill, the Better Care Reconciliation Act, looks largely like its House counterpart, which passed the House in May. Both bills eliminate the Prevention and Public Health Fund established by the Affordable Care Act, by taking money away from community organizations that provide screenings and vaccinations to those who can’t afford them. The Senate bill, however, would eliminate funding for the Prevention and Public Health Fund starting in fiscal year 2018—just three months from now. Members of the Senate committee tasked with drafting new health care legislation have been meeting frequently in hopes of working out a compromise. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell delayed a vote on the bill until after the week-long July 4th recess after it became clear there was not enough support to get the bill across the finish line.
Prevention saves money in the long run and saves lives. The Prevent Cancer Foundation® will continue doing everything we can so everyone can access essential cancer screenings and coverage for preventive services. Click here to read our letter to senators.
Please join us in contacting your senators today to protect prevention.
Introducing new Director of Policy and Advocacy
The Prevent Cancer Foundation® would like to formally introduce Taylor Patton, our new Director of Policy and Advocacy. Taylor comes to us from the George Washington Cancer Center where he worked on health equity programs for the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) community. Taylor also worked for the International Myeloma Foundation (IMF) where he served on the policy and advocacy team, working to expand access to treatment and increase funding for research. We welcome Taylor and look forward to expanding our policy and advocacy program! He can be reached attaylor.patton@preventcancer.org.
Think About the Link® in Los Angeles and Houston
Think About the Link® is on the road raising awareness of virally-induced cancers and providing free screenings to at-risk communities.
In Los Angeles, Think About the Link® hosted a health education booth at the Los Angeles Juneteenth Festival on June 17 and 18. Juneteenth is an American holiday commemorating the announcement of the abolition of slavery in Texas on June 19, 1865. More than 250 people visited the booth to discuss how HPV, hepatitis B, hepatitis C and related cancers impact the African-American community.
In Houston, Think About the Link® hosted an Asian Community Health Fair on June 24. Approximately 30 local health vendors provided information and services to more than 200 community members. Health care providers and a cervical cancer survivor presented information on virally-induced cancers, encouraging attendees to get vaccinated and screened.
Have a healthy 4th of July
This year, throw a Fourth of July party that’s equally fun, delicious and health conscious.
One-third of all new cancer diagnoses are related to obesity, minimal physical activity and a poor diet. Start or keep up your healthy habits with these simple tips:
Grill healthier proteins: Fourth of July screams cookouts and barbecues, but eating a lot of red meat has been linked to an increased risk of colorectal cancer. This year, swap out the beef for chicken, turkey burgers or fish for a healthier meal.
Plan an activity: Organize a kickball game, frisbee tournament, hike, tug-of-war competition, kayak trip, three-legged race or scavenger hunt. These are all great ways to stay active and burn calories.
Pay attention to portions: If you can’t resist apple pie or hamburgers, remember moderation is key. Fill up half your plate first with salad or veggies to avoid overdoing it on high-calorie options.
Don’t use the holiday as an excuse to binge eat and lounge around. To learn more about how a healthy lifestyle can reduce your cancer risk, visitpreventcancer.org.
