By David Haselwood, Executive Director at CanSup.org
With recent elections bringing potential changes to leadership at the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), some cancer patients might feel uncertain about how these shifts could affect the development and approval of cancer therapies. Here’s why you can feel confident that cancer care and innovation will remain strong.
1. The FDA’s Core Mission Stays Unchanged
The FDA exists to ensure that drugs and medical treatments are safe and effective for patients. This scientific mandate does not change based on political transitions. FDA decisions on cancer therapies are guided by data, clinical trials, and expert reviews conducted by career scientists and oncologists—not political appointees
What This Means for You: Cancer treatments will continue to be rigorously tested and approved using science-driven processes. Leadership changes won’t disrupt this foundational mission.
2. Cancer Research and Innovation Are Thriving
The momentum in cancer treatment—such as breakthroughs in immunotherapy, precision medicine, and targeted therapies—is led by researchers and pharmaceutical companies. These advancements occur within a system of clinical trials and collaboration that is largely unaffected by government leadership changes
What This Means for You: The therapies you hear about today—and the ones coming tomorrow—are driven by an ecosystem that thrives independently of political cycles.
3. Cancer Care Is a Non-Partisan Priority
Federal support for cancer research enjoys bipartisan backing. Initiatives like the Cancer Moonshot program highlight the shared commitment to advancing cancer care. Funding for the National Cancer Institute (NCI) and the FDA’s fast-tracking of cancer treatments will likely remain unaffected
This Means for You: No matter which administration is in power, the importance of cancer care and research is widely recognized and consistently prioritized.
4. Focus on Your Individual Care
While national policies and FDA processes might feel distant, it’s important to remember that your personal care team—your oncologist, nurses, and specialists—remains focused on you. They stay updated on new therapies and research developments to ensure you receive the best possible care.
What This Means for You: Your treatment plan will not be impacted by leadership changes, as it’s determined by your doctors and based on your unique needs.
Final Thoughts
Changes in leadership at HHS or the FDA can feel unsettling, but the systems supporting cancer research, drug development, and patient care are stable and resilient. Whether you’re in treatment now or watching for the next breakthrough therapy, you can take comfort in knowing that cancer care remains a priority—driven by science and supported by a wide coalition of researchers, advocates, and caregivers.
Have questions or concerns? Reach out to us at [email protected].
