July 22, 2013 – The Rally for Medical Research was recently held in Washington, D.C.. Addressing Congress, the gathering expressed the importance of increasing government spending for medical research, while shedding light on the negative impact budget cuts have on the health and well-being of the American people. The rally was attended by an estimated 200 advocacy organizations that included scientists, patients, doctors, advocates, cancer researchers, bereaved family members and legislators that showed up in solidarity to advocate for the support of more federal funding to improve the health of our nation. Representatives of mesothelioma advocacy groups were in attendance to show support for the increase of federal funding of research that could result in medical breakthroughs leading to cures for mesothelioma as well as improvements in patients’ quality of life.
Cuts to NIH Funding
Historically, government funding of medical research has helped lead to discoveries including multiple new cancer drugs, an increased cure rate for childhood leukemia, the advancement of stem cell therapy, and a cervical cancer vaccine for women. Cuts to medical research funding would clearly endanger the work of the NIH and prove to be harmful for the American people. Due to sequestration cuts that went into effect on March 1, the NIH has to do just that. The NIH is required to cut its spending by roughly $1.5 billion dollars by the time the fiscal year ends in September. This is equivalent to approximately 5% of the NIH’s annual funding.
Obama’s Proposed Budget for 2014 Will Aid Mesothelioma Community
Recently, President Obama released his budget proposal for the fiscal year 2014, which included his proposed funding for the NIH of $31 billion for medical research. This would be a 1.5 percent increase over the fiscal year 2012. If Congress accepts and passes this proposal, it would be a big win for not only the medical research community but the mesothelioma community as well. NIH is slotted to provide at least 23 research grants to the mesothelioma organizations in 2014 if the proposal gains approval.
Philadelphia Mesothelioma Attorneys at the Shein Law: Advocating for the Rights of Mesothelioma Patients
If you or someone you love is suffering from mesothelioma, lung cancer or any other asbestos-related disease, please call the Shein Law, a well-respected mesothelioma law firm in Philadelphia recognized for our dedication to our community and our impressive record of successful outcomes for our clients. Our team of experienced attorneys will protect your rights, help you get the care you need and seek the financial compensation to which you may be entitled. Our offices are located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania and Pennsauken, New Jersey. Call us today at 1-877-SHEINLAW (743-4652) or fill out our online contact form to schedule a free consultation in one of our offices or at a location convenient to you or your family.