FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
February 5, 2015

Contact: Communications Office
(850) 245-4111

TALLAHASSEE—The Florida Department of Health is celebrating the remarkable progress that's been made in the fight against a devastating disease that has touched all Floridians. This week the department and nation recognize World Cancer Day, February 4, as a chance to highlight how we can collectively impact this major health concern.

"This week, World Cancer Day reminds us of progress and promise for Florida families in the prevention and treatment of cancer," said State Surgeon General and Secretary of Health Dr. John Armstrong. "Thanks to the leadership of Governor Scott and the legislature, Florida is investing in cancer research and collaboration to find cures and offer hope to patients dealing with cancer."

Earlier this year, Governor Scott announced record funding to improve cancer care, increase the number of National Cancer Institute (NCI) designated cancer centers and create a premier cancer research network in Florida. The $60 million investment in Florida's cancer centers will allow for the most advanced care through innovative and collaborative research outcomes. The other $20 million of cancer research funding is split between the James and Esther King Biomedical Research Program and the William "Bill" G. Bankhead and David Coley Cancer Research Program, which was awarded to cancer research projects. This grant funding is being used to expand research into tobacco-related diseases, such as lung cancer.

Governor Scott has also committed more than $1.5 million in his "Keep Florida Working" 2015-2016 budget to breast and cervical detection programs that help residents get diagnosed earlier to improve survival and quality of life. This allocation increases the number of women who are screened and diagnosed and promotes additional outreach and education in the 38 Florida counties reporting the highest rates of late-stage breast and cervical cancer.

The department's Comprehensive Cancer Control Program supports six regional cancer control collaboratives that convene stakeholders and implement data- and evidence-based cancer education and prevention activities throughout the state. These collaboratives are composed of public and private stakeholders representing health care professionals, private businesses, community members, government employees, education professionals and survivors throughout the state. Collectively, these stakeholders promote cancer prevention, address risk behaviors and work to ensure health equity for all Floridians. For more information, visit www.floridahealth.gov/cancer.

The department works to protect, promote and improve the health of all people in Florida through integrated state, county and community efforts. Follow us on Twitter at @HealthyFla and on Facebook.

For more information about the Florida Department of Health please visit www.floridahealth.gov.