Senate Passes Cantwell-Sponsored Bill to Investigate Rise of Lung Cancer in Women

Senate Passes Cantwell-Sponsored Bill to Investigate Rise of Lung Cancer in Women

Cases of lung cancer in women have risen more than 80% in the last 40 years, even while cases in men have declined

WASHINGTON, D.C. - This week, the United States Senate unanimously passed the Women and Lung Cancer Research and Preventive Services Act, which directs the U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services to conduct a comprehensive, interagency review of lung cancer in women.

The bill was cosponsored by U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA), ranking member of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation and senior member of the Senate Finance Committee. Sen. Cantwell released this statement:

"Lung cancer diagnoses among women have surged by nearly 85% in the past 40 years, while rates among men have declined by 36%. The Women and Lung Cancer Research and Preventive Services Act would ensure a comprehensive review of lung cancer in women, helping drive targeted research to improve prevention, screening, diagnosis, and treatment for those affected by this deadly disease. I hope the House will quickly advance this critical step toward a cancer-free future."

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related death worldwide. Its rise among women, including nonsmokers and younger women, suggests disparities in scientific research as well as currently overlooked risk factors. According to the American Lung Association, Washington ranks 14^th for new lung cancer cases nationwide with 48.1 diagnosis per 100,000 individuals.

The bill was introduced by U.S. Senators Tina Smith (D-MN) and Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV). In addition to Sen. Cantwell, it was cosponsored by U.S. Senators Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Susan Collins (R-ME), Jon Ossoff (D-GA), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), and Amy Klobuchar (D-MN).

The bill now heads to the House of Representatives for consideration.