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Susan G. Komen for the Cure(R) Advocacy Alliance Applauds Congress for Including Health Care Assistance; Research in Economic Stimulus

Posted on: Friday, 13 February 2009, 21:53 CST

WASHINGTON, Feb. 13 /PRNewswire/ -- The Susan G. Komen for the Cure(R) Advocacy Alliance applauds the inclusion of crucial health care support in the economic stimulus legislation that was passed by both houses of Congress today. The $789 billion stimulus package makes critical investments in biomedical research and provides vital aid to states struggling with growing budget deficits.

(Logo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20070122/NYM084LOGO)

"States are facing mounting budget deficits, with tragic consequences for breast cancer patients across the country," said Martina Hone, president of the Susan G. Komen for the Cure Advocacy Alliance. "The immediate aid to states facing this crisis gives them the opportunity to avoid cuts to potentially life-saving breast cancer education, screening and treatment services for underserved women."

Now awaiting President Obama's signature, the legislation addresses several pressing health care needs by:

• Investing an additional $10 billion in the National Institutes of Health, which has experienced a steady reduction in purchasing power over the past half dozen years.
• Additional federal funds for state Medicaid programs, which will help states struggling with the financial strain of increased health care costs and Medicaid demand, at the same time they are experiencing reduced state revenues.
• $1 billion for prevention and wellness programs at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, which will help close the gaps in access and protect vital programs that address chronic diseases, wellness and the public health workforce.

"These provisions are equally important to our economic health, as they provide both short- and long-term stimulus," said Hone. "This improves our economy while also taking us one step closer to the day when we can end the suffering and death from cancer."

The Susan G. Komen for the Cure Advocacy Alliance is a voice for change on Capitol Hill, in state legislatures and on the campaign trail. With the help of nearly 200,000 Komen Champions and Komen's network of 122 domestic affiliates, we are aggressively seeking increased funding for research and greater access to screening and treatment. The Komen Advocacy Alliance engages policymakers and leaders at all levels of government to advocate for an increased investment in breast cancer research and greater access to breast health services.

SOURCE Susan G. Komen for the Cure(R) Advocacy Alliance

Source: PR Newswire

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