ACS and Pfizer's $15M Cancer Care Disparity Initiative

The American Cancer Society (ACS) and Pfizer Inc. announced the launch of "Changing the Odds: A Partnership to Improve Cancer Outcomes," a three-year plan to address gaps in cancer care.

With $15 million in funding from Pfizer, this program aims to improve health outcomes in underserved communities across the United States by increasing awareness and access to cancer screening, clinical trial opportunities, patient support and full navigation. "Change the Trends" will initially focus on breast and prostate cancer in underserved communities, with the potential to expand to other cancers in the future. ACS plans to recruit additional partners to expand the reach of program activities to more people and deepen impact in specific communities.

"Cancer is not trivial, nor is cancer treatment," said Chris Boshoff, Pfizer's chief oncology and vice president. "Everyone should have access to modern health care, regardless of their circumstances or where they live. We are proud to partner with the American Cancer Society to launch a comprehensive program that encourages the community to reach people with cancer early where they are and connect.

Breast cancer and prostate cancer are the most common types of cancer among women and men in the U.S. Rates of both types of cancer continue to rise across the country, with more affected. Some races and ethnicities may be more likely to live in urban areas. In addition, people living in rural areas of the United States have a higher death rate because they have difficulty accessing cancer screening and quality care. Social isolation associated with people living with breast or prostate cancer is associated with worse outcomes, and community centers are designed to significantly alter the lives of white patients by meeting their health needs and addressing isolation. We offer the help you need to keep up with scientific advances in health.

"Our goal to end cancer is one that we know for all people, including underserved communities, can only be achieved through strong and effective cooperation and a shared vision with Pfizer," said the CEO, Dr. Karen E. Knudsen. American Cancer Society. "Our partnership will help us unlock the potential of ACS to address health disparities through measurable, sustainable and systemic solutions that contribute to high-quality care and treatment for all."