Rep. Brian K. Fitzpatrick, U.S. Representative for Pennsylvania's 1st District | Official U.S. House headshot
Rep. Brian K. Fitzpatrick, U.S. Representative for Pennsylvania's 1st District | Official U.S. House headshot
Today, Congressmen Brian Fitzpatrick and Brendan Boyle announced the successful passage of their bipartisan Women and Lung Cancer Research and Preventive Services Act in the House of Representatives. The bill is designed to address lung cancer's unique impact on women by enhancing research, preventive services, and public awareness. It now moves to the Senate, where Senators Marco Rubio and Tina Smith are leading efforts for its advancement.
"Today’s passage of the bipartisan Women and Lung Cancer Research and Preventative Services Act sends a powerful and undeniable message: Congress is fully committed to ending the inequities that have left too many women in my community and across the nation vulnerable to this devastating disease," said Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick. "This legislation represents a decisive step forward in advancing groundbreaking research, improving prevention, and ensuring access to lifesaving care for women battling lung cancer. I thank my colleagues for recognizing the urgency of this fight and standing united to deliver real progress for women’s health across our nation."
“Today marks a significant step forward in our fight against lung cancer,” said Congressman Boyle. “Every eight minutes, an American woman loses her life to lung cancer. This bill, now passed by the House, represents a crucial stride toward addressing the disparities that persist in lung cancer prevention and treatment, particularly for women. I’m proud to work alongside my colleagues in ensuring that our government prioritizes focused research and action to confront this devastating disease.”
Laurie Fenton Ambrose, president and CEO of GO2 for Lung Cancer stated: “GO2 for Lung Cancer extends our gratitude to Representatives Fitzpatrick and Boyle as leaders of the Women and Lung Cancer Research and Preventative Services Act. For more than a decade, women with lung cancer have waited for this action. The passage of this legislation is significant because it demonstrates that we have elevated conversations about the unique and devastating impact of lung cancer on women. This bipartisan, bicameral legislation will transform survivorship for women impacted by the disease.”
The Women and Lung Cancer Research and Preventive Services Act mandates an interagency review conducted by the Secretary of Health and Human Services with consultation from Defense and Veterans Affairs Secretaries on current research regarding women with lung cancer. This review aims to improve access to preventive services, initiate public awareness campaigns, while addressing challenges faced uniquely by women.
As Co-Chair of the House Cancer Caucus, Congressman Fitzpatrick remains dedicated to combating cancer through advocacy efforts aimed at securing funding, driving research initiatives, which support patients nationwide.