John Browne: Echo the Cancer Society's message on two key programs

To The Daily Sun,

I just wanted to make readers aware that volunteers with the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network have reached out to New Hampshire lawmakers to talk about cancer issues. As someone who has personally been impacted by cancer, as I’m sure most readers have been, I would like to suggest this is a good time for readers to echo ACS CAN’s message by contacting our representatives, senator, and Gov. Chris Sununu about upcoming cancer legislation

Two programs in particular they are requesting support of: • Maintaining the current funding of $171,000 for the Breast & Cervical Screening Program. The Governor has included this program in his proposed budget.

• Restoring state funding for a tobacco control program by $225,000 to cover youth cessation efforts. The overall smoking program has been around for years, but it appears the governor has dropped this youth cessation portion from the program this year. It’s hard to believe this would be dropped considering 33% of NH school students report using e-cigs, 13% above the national average of 19.6%. Also in light of all NH youth have had to deal with the past year with the virus, online learning, quarantines, etc.

With thousands of New Hampshire residents out of work and so many having lost their employee sponsored health coverage, I would like to think it is more important than ever that we do our part to prevent cancer, ensure access to early detection programs, and remove treatment barriers.

John Browne

Laconia