Protect the Integrity of Federal Cancer Research

Scientific discovery depends on a research system that is rigorous, transparent and guided by experts. Today, that system is at risk.

The administration, through the Office of Management & Budget, has proposed significant changes to how federally funded research projects are reviewed and awarded. While Congress has worked to prioritize and increase funding for lifesaving medical research, including pancreatic cancer, this proposal could fundamentally change how those dollars are distributed - creating uncertainty throughout the research ecosystem.

For pancreatic cancer, the stakes are high.

Breakthroughs happen because research proposals are evaluated through a thorough, unbiased peer-review process led by subject-matter experts. This approach ensures that the most promising science receives support, fuels innovation and helps build the next generation of researchers dedicated to improving outcomes for patients.

Weakening this process could have far-reaching consequences. Additional administrative hurdles and political influence in funding decisions could slow the pace of discovery, discourage researchers from pursuing innovative ideas and disrupt the scientific progress that patients and families are counting on.

Congress has recognized the importance of investing in medical research. Now, lawmakers must also protect the integrity of the system that makes those investments meaningful.

Together, we can change the story the administration is writing by taking action today!

"Advances in pancreatic cancer research would not have been possible without the peer-review merit-based grantmaking system used for decades by the National Institutes of Health and the Department of Defense. Thanks to sustained federal funding and grant review process baked in scientific merit, we are finally seeing progress for the third leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the U.S. We respectfully request the administration to withdraw this proposed rule, and we stand willing to work with OMB and federal agencies to strengthen the federal research enterprise and continue to make breakthroughs to save patients' lives," said PanCAN President and CEO Julie Fleshman.

Tell your members of Congress to oppose the administration's proposal to overhaul the federal research review and funding process. Urge them to protect the rigorous, expert-driven peer-review system that has advanced cancer research for decades and ensure federal investments continue to support the best science.

People with pancreatic cancer cannot afford delays. Together, we can help safeguard the research that drives innovation, accelerates new treatments and brings hope to everyone affected by this disease.