Biden boosts Cancer Moonshot with $150M in New Orleans

President Joe Biden visited New Orleans on Tuesday to unveil $150 million in grants as part of his "Cancer Moonshot" initiative, aimed at reducing cancer mortality rates in the U.S. by 50% over the next 25 years. This announcement comes amid criticism from former President Donald Trump, who accused Biden of failing to deliver on his 2020 campaign promise to cure cancer. Biden emphasized the importance of the initiative, which has so far allocated $400 million over two years, a fraction of the nearly $200 billion spent annually on cancer treatment in the U.S. During his speech at Tulane University, Biden highlighted the need for improved collaboration in cancer research and the development of advanced technologies to assist surgeons in tumor removal. The new funding will support eight research institutions, including Tulane, which will receive $23 million. Biden noted that current surgical practices often rely on educated guesses, and the new technology aims to enhance precision in cancer surgeries, potentially reducing the need for follow-up treatments. The Cancer Moonshot initiative, relaunched in 2022, aims to prevent 4 million cancer deaths by 2047 and improve the experiences of those affected by cancer. Despite the ambitious goals, the initiative's budget has not kept pace with inflation, raising concerns about its long-term viability. Biden's administration has faced challenges, including a reversal on a proposed ban on menthol cigarettes, which was part of the cancer prevention strategy. As Biden approaches the end of his term, he remains committed to advancing cancer research and treatment, emphasizing the urgency of the issue for families affected by cancer. The president's focus on the Cancer Moonshot reflects a personal commitment, as he aims to leave a lasting legacy in the fight against cancer.