Urges Senate Action to Ensure Early Education and Detection of Breast Cancer
WASHINGTON, DC – JULY 21, 2026 – Susan G. Komen®, the world’s leading breast cancer organization, commends members of the U.S. House of Representatives for passing H.R.4541, the EARLY Act Reauthorization of 2025. In addition to the important work of the EARLY Act, the bill included language from the SCREENS for Cancer Act to reauthorize the National Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program (NBCCEDP). The bill now awaits action by the U.S. Senate and Presidential signature before it can become law.
The EARLY Act Reauthorization of 2025 would allow for the continued funding of the Breast Cancer Education and Awareness Requires Learning Young (EARLY) program which provides breast cancer education and support specifically for young women. In May, the House Energy and Commerce Committee included an amendment to advance the EARLY Act alongside the Screening for Communities to Receive Early and Equitable Needed Services (SCREENS) for Cancer Act. This legislation reauthorizes the NBCCEDP, providing access to breast and cervical cancer screening and diagnostic services as well as navigation into treatment for those who have lower incomes or do not have adequate insurance.
“We applaud the House of Representatives for advancing legislation reaffirming our nation’s commitment to two programs of key importance to the breast cancer community,” said Molly Guthrie, vice president of policy and advocacy at Susan G. Komen. “Together, these vital programs increase breast cancer awareness and improve access to timely screening and care reducing barriers for millions across the country—especially young women and those most underserved.”
For the last 35 years, NBCCEDP-funded programs have provided more than 17 million breast and cervical cancer screening examinations serving more than 6.6 million people. EARLY Act programs have reached millions more serving young breast cancer survivors, individuals living with metastatic breast cancer, caregivers, loved ones and more. Together, these critical components of a strong breast health infrastructure provide public education, outreach, patient navigation and care coordination to promote breast health and increase breast cancer screening rates especially for underserved, vulnerable populations.
“House passage is a huge milestone for the many advocates across the country who have raised their voices in support of these bills,” said Guthrie. “Komen is proud to stand alongside these advocates and bipartisan Congressional Champions and we look forward to working with the Senate to ensure the SCREENS for Cancer Act and the EARLY Act Reauthorization of 2025 become law.”
About Susan G. Komen®
Susan G. Komen® is the world’s leading nonprofit breast cancer organization, working to save lives and end breast cancer forever. Komen has an unmatched, comprehensive 360-degree approach to fighting this disease across all fronts and supporting millions of people in the U.S. and in countries worldwide. We advocate for patients, drive research breakthroughs, improve access to high-quality care, offer direct patient support and empower people with trustworthy information. Founded by Nancy G. Brinker, who promised her sister, Susan G. Komen, that she would end the disease that claimed Suzy’s life, Komen remains committed to supporting those affected by breast cancer today, while tirelessly searching for tomorrow’s cures. Visit komen.org or call 1-877 GO KOMEN. Connect with us on social at www.komen.org/contact-us/follow-us/.
