The American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) is the nonprofit, nonpartisan advocacy affiliate of the American Cancer Society. It works to influence public health policy at the local, state, and federal levels to accelerate progress against cancer through legislation, regulation, and system changes.
ACS CAN combines the expertise and reach of the nation’s most trusted cancer organization with the voice of everyday advocates to ensure cancer remains a national priority. This overview highlights how the network turns community engagement into measurable policy wins.
| Topic | Key Focus | Impact Example | Engagement Channel |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mission | Transform cancer research, advocacy, and patient support into actionable laws | Tobacco control legislation in multiple states | Volunteer networks and online tools |
| Structure | National office with state and local teams | Coalitions across health systems and community groups | Grassroots lobbying and campaign advocacy |
| Policy Levers | Legislation, regulations, agency guidance, and budget decisions | Coverage for cancer prevention and treatment services | Public comment periods and testimony opportunities |
| Accountability | Scorecards, voter guides, and elected official report cards | Annual cancer voting records made public | Advocacy days and digital campaigns |
Legislative Advocacy and Federal Policy Priorities
ACS CAN focuses heavily on federal advocacy, shaping policies that affect cancer research funding, drug approval pathways, and patient access to quality care. This includes supporting robust appropriations for the National Cancer Institute and agencies overseeing drug development.
The network tracks major legislation from introduction to implementation, mobilizing advocates to contact representatives during critical votes. Priority areas often include access to innovative therapies, clinical trial participation, and closing coverage gaps that affect survivors.
State and Local Cancer Policy Initiatives
At the state level, ACS CAN engages on issues such as tobacco taxation, smokefree air laws, and cancer prevention programs. The network helps translate complex regulations into clear, actionable steps for community members.
Local chapters frequently collaborate with public health departments to advance screening and early detection initiatives. These partnerships amplify efforts to reduce cancer disparities in underserved populations through education and outreach.
Advocacy Training and Volunteer Mobilization
Training sessions equip volunteers with evidence-based talking points and policy updates, enabling effective communication with elected officials. Participants learn how to share personal cancer stories to humanize data-driven policy goals.
ACS CAN provides toolkits, webinars, and grassroots alerts that help advocates coordinate campaigns during key legislative sessions. This structured approach ensures that advocacy efforts are consistent, focused, and impactful across regions.
Research Funding, Survivorship, and Prevention Strategies
The organization supports policies that sustain public and private investment in cancer research and survivorship care. Emphasis is placed on funding mechanisms that encourage innovation and translate discoveries into accessible treatments.
ACS CAN also advances strategies for primary and secondary prevention, pushing for stronger standards in screening and risk reduction. These efforts align with broader public health objectives to lower cancer incidence and mortality over time.
Get Involved and Strengthen Cancer Policy Impact
- Sign up as an ACS CAN volunteer to contact lawmakers during critical votes
- Share personal stories at advocacy days to highlight the human impact of policy decisions
- Use ACS CAN toolkits and scorecards to stay informed about legislative records
- Join local coalitions to advance prevention, screening, and survivorship initiatives
- Subscribe to alerts and webinars to build skills for effective, evidence-based advocacy
FAQ
Reader questions
How can I participate in ACS CAN advocacy campaigns near me?
You can join ACS CAN by signing up through the American Cancer Society website, selecting local advocacy opportunities, and opting into email alerts for upcoming actions in your area.
What types of policy issues does ACS CAN typically take on at the state level?
State-level work often includes tobacco control, Medicaid expansion related to cancer care, funding for screening programs, and laws that improve patient access to timely treatment and follow-up services.
Does ACS CAN support increased federal funding for cancer research and treatment?
Yes, the network strongly advocates for sustained and increased federal funding for the National Cancer Institute, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention cancer programs, and related research infrastructure.
Are there specific campaigns targeting insurance coverage for cancer therapies?
ACS CAN actively campaigns on issues such as prior authorization reform, coverage for innovative therapies, and protections against insurance discrimination for patients with a history of cancer.