American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACSCAN)

ACS CAN'S MISSION CATEGORIES HAVE BEEN UPDATED IN 2021 TO REFLECT ITS OPERATING STRUCTURE MORE ACCURATELY. Access to Care - Access to quality, affordable health care is an essential piece of ACS CAN's mission to reduce death and suffering from cancer. Insurance status directly impacts health outcomes, and existing disparities in cancer care are largely attributed to barriers in accessing health care services, including lack of adequate coverage. ACS CAN mobilizes cancer patients, their families and caregivers across the nation to break down these barriers and advocate to ensure everyone can access the health care they deserve.

Accelerating Cures - Cancer research saves lives. Every new breakthrough in freeing the world from the pain and suffering of cancer - from new cures to innovative ways to prevent and treat the disease - have one thing in common; the research was in some way funded by the federal government's National Institutes of Health and the National Cancer Institute. ACS CAN energizes cancer patients, their families and caregivers to knowledgeably advocate for sustained and meaningful cancer research that benefits all Americans.

Cancer Prevention and Screening - ACS CAN engages in supporting public policy that prevents cancer by limiting tobacco use: smoke free laws, prohibiting flavors, access to tobacco cessation services and tobacco taxes are proven interventions that decrease death from cancer. Early detection of cancer through screening can reduce mortality from certain cancers as well. ACS CAN engages in public policy advocacy to further these goals.