Big Cancer Bill Aims to Increase Biomarker Research and Use - U.S.

"ALERT (Act) also would have NCI report annually on its plans and progress regarding research on cancers with low incidence and survival rates, and would establish a grants program to conduct research on such cancers.

Among other measures, the act also would establish a grant program for the states that would fund colorectal cancer screening and referrals for medical treatment that is similar to the national breast and cervical cancer programs.

The bill also includes a number of measures and programs aimed at the issues surrounding patients and health insurance coverage, including a provision that would enable patients to continue to receive coverage for treatment while they are in clinical trials."