Stomach Cancer Advocacy Day Resources
Gastric Cancer Advocacy Day 2025
February 11, 2025 | Capitol Hill, Washington, D.C.
Hope for Stomach Cancer successfully hosted the 2nd Gastric Cancer Advocacy Day in Washington, D.C., bringing together patients, caregivers, survivors, and advocates to push for the reintroduction of the Stomach Cancer Prevention and Early Detection Act. This event provided a platform for community members to share their experiences, meet with lawmakers, and emphasize the urgent need for early detection, research funding, and health equity in stomach cancer care.
Advocacy in Action
The day began with training sessions on February 10, 2025, where advocates learned about effective messaging and how to engage with policymakers. On February 11, participants met with congressional representatives, highlighting the personal and public health impact of stomach cancer and urging legislative action.
This year’s Advocacy Day built upon the success of the first-ever Gastric Cancer Advocacy Day, held on May 7, 2024, which led to the initial introduction of the Stomach Cancer Prevention and Early Detection Act (H.R. 9304). With the new congressional session, reintroducing the bill became a top priority.
Key Focus Areas:
- Early Detection & Screening: Advocating for national guidelines to detect stomach cancer sooner, particularly in high-risk populations.
- Research & Innovation: Pushing for continued federal funding to advance treatment and prevention strategies.
- Health Equity: Addressing disparities in stomach cancer diagnosis and treatment across racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic groups.
By amplifying patient voices, Advocacy Day played a crucial role in advancing policy discussions and ensuring that stomach cancer remains a national health priority.
Event Highlights & Impact
- Engaged with key congressional leaders and policymakers to push for bipartisan support.
- Provided training sessions to equip advocates with the tools to effectively share their stories.
- Strengthened partnerships with medical experts, nonprofit organizations, and advocacy coalitions to reinforce the mission of early detection and equitable care.
Photo Gallery 📸
- Advocates meeting with lawmakers.
- Group discussions and training sessions.
- Survivors and caregivers sharing their stories.
- Panel discussions and key speakers.
- Candid moments from Capitol Hill visits.
Resource Hub: Key Issues & Advocacy Materials
As part of our mission to advance stomach cancer awareness and legislative action, the following resources provide essential information for continued advocacy efforts:
- Stomach Cancer Prevention and Early Detection Act (Bill H.R. 9304)
- Fact Sheet on H.R. 9304
- Estimated Cases and Deaths by State
- Gastric Cancer Disparities in the United States
- Medicare Multi-Cancer Early Detection Screening Coverage Act
- ORPHAN Cures Act
These resources serve as key materials for understanding the legislative landscape and supporting ongoing advocacy initiatives.
Looking Back: The First Gastric Cancer Advocacy Day (May 7, 2024)
The inaugural Gastric Cancer Advocacy Day in 2024 was a historic step forward, resulting in the introduction of H.R. 9304, a bipartisan bill championed by Representatives Yadira Caraveo and Joe Wilson. This legislation sought to reduce the burden of stomach cancer by improving early detection, research funding, and public awareness.
The overwhelming support from the advocacy community—patients, caregivers, nonprofit leaders, and healthcare professionals—laid the foundation for future progress.
- Legislative Milestone: Secured congressional support for the first-ever stomach cancer prevention act.
- Collaboration & Recognition: Partnered with major cancer organizations and received public recognition for advocacy efforts.
- Growing the Movement: Expanded participation, with more advocates joining from across the country.
This Act is endorsed by ALL the major stomach cancer nonprofits:
View the Full Bill | Read the Press Release
Fact Sheet on the Stomach Cancer Prevention and Early Detection Letter
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What did the training session cover?
A: The training prepared advocates with key talking points, effective communication strategies, and background on the Stomach Cancer Prevention and Early Detection Act.
Q: How were congressional meetings organized?
A: Appointments were scheduled in advance to ensure advocates met with representatives from their districts. Groups were formed based on state delegation to maximize impact.
Q: What was the dress code for Advocacy Day?
A: Business casual attire was recommended, with Periwinkle as the awareness color. Comfortable walking shoes were encouraged due to security screenings and movement between congressional offices.
Q: Were meals provided during the event?
A: Breakfast was available at the hotel, and a lunch reception was held during the Congressional Stomach Cancer Task Force Forum.
Q: How was transportation arranged?
A: A shuttle service transported participants between the hotel and Capitol Hill, with accommodations for luggage storage.
Acknowledgments & Gratitude
Hope for Stomach Cancer extends its deepest appreciation to everyone who participated, from patients and caregivers to medical experts, policymakers, and advocacy partners. The momentum from this event continues to fuel the fight for stomach cancer equity and early detection.
📌 Stay connected for updates on next steps and ongoing advocacy efforts!