DOD Funding for Lung Cancer Program

I have not been able to write in the past little bit. My 14 year old daughter had emergency back surgery (and is doing very well). My life has been consumed with taking care of her through this ordeal.

While reading a local business journal, I stumbled across an article that peaked my interest. Congress has approved $20 million for a new lung cancer research program at the Department of Defense. President Bush is expected to sign the bill containing the new program, and the funding will be available in fiscal year 2009, which begins Oct. 1.

Congress started funding cancer research programs through DOD in the mid-1990s with a $25 million appropriation for breast cancer. But this is the first time a lung cancer research program has been added. Lung cancer actually causes more deaths each year than breast, prostate and colon cancers combined. More than 215,000 people will be diagnosed with lung cancer in the U.S. this year, and most will die in less than a year.

I’ve heard many people condemn those who battle lung cancer - ” How long did you smoke?”  or “They did this to themselves.” Not all lung cancers come as a result of smoking! The two people I know who have battled this particular form of cancer NEVER smoked a cigarette. Of course cigarette smoking does impact the chance of developing lung cancer, however it is important to realize not all cases are related to smoking.

The bill requires the Army to provide a plan for how the $20 million will be spent and submit that plan to Congress within 120 days after the bill is signed.