Debbie Dingell: “too many people, either personally or through a loved one, have felt the pain of cancer. It strikes 1 out of every 2 men…”

“too many people, either personally or through a loved one, have felt the pain of cancer. It strikes 1 out of every 2 men and 1 out of every 3 women and will tragically claim more than 570,000 American lives this year alone. Cancer is a complex disease that takes many forms. It can attack a single organ or the whole body. It can be caused by genetic factors, environmental circumstances, or both. Without early detection or treatment, it can lead to debilitating illness and often death. On behalf of the Federal Government, the National Cancer Institute (NCI) has led the fight against cancer since its inception in 1937. NCI conducts and supports research, training, health information dissemination, and other program with respect to the cause, diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of cancer, rehabilitation from cancer, and the continuing care of cancer patients and their families. The National Cancer Institute set for itself the goal of ending cancer suffering and death by 2015. Over the last several years, NCI has taken on this challenge by working with expert staff and identified critical paths needed to make the vision a reality. This includes developing a strategic plan and framework for use of funding, infrastructure, tools, and other resources. Eliminating cancer suffering and death is a true possibility.…”