Nearly 150,000 Americans will be diagnosed with colon cancer this year according to the American Cancer Society. These numbers make colon cancer the third most diagnosed cancer in the United States, which is why we must do everything we can to prevent and treat this devastating disease.

Early detection and treatment can mean the difference between life and death and are critical to surviving cancer. The Colorectal Cancer Early Detection, Prevention and Treatment Act, which I co-sponsored, would increase access to colon cancer screenings, information, and follow-up services for those between the ages of 50-64 who are medically underserved.

We must also continue to pour resources into research that can lead to better detection, treatment, and potential cures for all cancers. Congress has placed a high priority on funding medical research. In the last few years, Congress has succeeded in doubling the budget of the National Institutes of Health (NIH). This is quite an achievement and a significant step toward providing cutting edge treatments for victims of all diseases.