AACR CEO urges cancer researchers to speak out against cuts

The American Association for Cancer Research (AACR) recently held its annual meeting, which kicked off with the usual grand opening ceremony. However, what caught everyone by surprise were the closing remarks delivered by AACR CEO Margaret Foti. In a departure from the norm, Foti took the opportunity to publicly denounce the actions of the Trump administration in the realm of science and health policy over the past hundred days.

Foti specifically highlighted what she referred to as “major funding freezes for leading research institutions across the nation” and expressed concerns about the potential detrimental impact of “numerous executive orders and other proposals that have the potential to irreparably damage NIH.” This bold stance from AACR reflects the organization’s commitment to advocating for cancer research and pushing for increased funding for vital scientific endeavors.

AACR has a long-standing history of actively engaging with policymakers in Washington to champion the cause of cancer research. This includes organizing congressional briefings, coordinating demonstrations, and mobilizing diverse groups to advocate for greater support for cancer science. In response to the current challenges facing the scientific community, Foti announced that AACR is planning to organize demonstrations and events that will bring together representatives and scientists from across the country. She encouraged attendees of the annual meeting to actively participate in these initiatives.

The importance of advocating for continued support for cancer research cannot be overstated, especially in the face of ongoing challenges and uncertainties. By taking a strong stance against policies that threaten the progress of scientific research, AACR is demonstrating its unwavering commitment to advancing the fight against cancer.

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