Clinical and basic science researchers at UPCI and at these other centers have made remarkable contributions to understanding the biological basis of cancer. Such an investment in Pennsylvania will undoubtedly ease the burden of cancer, both personally and economically, while building the Commonwealth's strength in biomedical research, according to UPCI and the other centers. From 1986 to 1995, Pennsylvania's aging population has experienced a 20 percent increase in lung cancer cases. Worse still, both the incidence of and mortality from lung cancer in women are rising alarmingly, even after adjusting for age, according to a Pennsylvania Cancer Registry publication. Tobacco also contributes to many other types of cancer, including bladder, kidney, pancreas, oral, esophageal and head and neck cancers.
Patients also face enormous financial burdens.
They and their families suffer economic losses, including reduced earnings and medical care costs. Other states have recognized the importance of using funds from a tobacco settlement to build on current cancer research capabilities. Settlements in both Texas and Florida, which provided significant support for their cancer centers, proved to minimize administrative costs and maximize their investment in cancer research. These states also recognized the economic importance of strengthening their biomedical research programs. UPCI is the only NCI-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center in western Pennsylvania and one of 35 nationwide.