Representatives from the Colorectal Cancer Alliance met with congressional officials on Capitol Hill this week to gain support for colorectal cancer (CRC) research, urging immediate action to address the devastating toll of CRC on Americans.

The meetings are part of a broader government advocacy initiative by the Alliance to address the growing prevalence of CRC and improve patient care, advance research, and break down regulatory barriers that limit access to life-saving treatments.

The efforts of the Alliance will focus on the importance of CRC funding and regulatory reform with these key priorities:

• Address funding disparities by increasing colorectal cancer funding at the National Cancer Institute (NCI) and $20 million within the Congressionally Directed Medical Research Program (CDMRP) 
• Address regulatory barriers that inhibit all Americans from receiving quality care for colorectal cancer, including expanding access to biomarker testing
• Improve screening technologies and recommendations for colorectal cancer

The Alliance is committed to ensuring that colorectal cancer remains a national priority. By advocating for increased funding, regulatory improvements, and access to innovative treatments, we can save lives and improve patient outcomes. Now is the time for policymakers to act.