Susan G. Komen for the Cure(R) Advocacy Alliance Applauds Congress for Including Health Care Assistance; Research in Economi...( WASHINGTON Feb. 13 /- The Susan G. Ko...),Health

WASHINGTON, Feb. 13 /PRNewswire/ -- The Susan G. Komen for the Cure(R) Advocacy Alliance applauds the inclusion of crucial health care support in the economic stimulus legislation that was passed by both houses of Congress today. The $789 billion stimulus package makes critical investments in biomedical research and provides vital aid to states struggling with growing budget deficits.

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"States are facing mounting budget deficits, with tragic consequences for breast cancer patients across the country," said Martina Hone, president of the Susan G. Komen for the Cure Advocacy Alliance. "The immediate aid to states facing this crisis gives them the opportunity to avoid cuts to potentially life-saving breast cancer education, screening and treatment services for underserved women."

Now awaiting President Obama's signature, the legislation addresses several pressing health care needs by:

• Investing an additional $10 billion in the National Institutes of Health, which has experienced a steady reduction in purchasing power over the past half dozen years.
• Additional federal funds for state Medicaid programs, which will help states struggling with the financial strain of increased health care costs and Medicaid demand, at the same time they are experiencing reduced state revenues.
• $1 billion for prevention and wellness programs at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, which will help close the gaps in access and protect vital programs that address chronic diseases, wellness and the public health workforce.

"These provisions are equally important to our economic health, as they provide both short- and long-term stimulus," said Hone. "This im
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