Lung cancer research funding faces a critical threat. In a shocking move, the Department of Defense slashed its cancer research budget, eliminating all support for lung cancer under the Congressionally Directed Medical Research Programs (CDMRP). The Lung Cancer Research Program (LCRP), which once funded groundbreaking studies to improve survival and early detection, now receives $0 in FY25. These Department of Defense cancer research cuts jeopardize years of progress and put lives—especially those of veterans and non-smokers—at serious risk.
This devastating decision comes at a time when researchers urgently need support to advance detection, treatment, and survival.
Until now, CDMRP allocated $25 million annually to lung cancer research. In FY25, the DOD zeroed it out. This cut didn’t stop at lung cancer—it also wiped out funding for kidney, pancreatic, and brain cancers.
What’s at Stake?
•Patients will lose access to new treatment options
•Progress in early detection and biomarker research will slow
•Researchers will lose ground in understanding lung cancer in non-smokers, veterans, and underserved populations
A Breath of Hope’s research programs matter more than ever. We must continue pushing forward.
Take Action: Contact Congress Today Lung Cancer Funding
Call or email your House Representatives and Senators.
👉 Find Your House Representatives
Suggested message:
I urge you to restore full funding for the CDMRP, including the Lung Cancer Research Program (LCRP) at the Department of Defense.
Lung cancer patients and their families—including mine—depend on federally funded cancer research. Every new treatment starts with funding. These cuts slow progress, delay cures, and cost lives.
I ask you to reverse the 57% cut to CDMRP and restore the $25 million previously dedicated to lung cancer research.
In 2025, over 226,000 Americans will receive a lung cancer diagnosis. More than 124,000 will die. Our veterans face even greater risks due to age, smoking history, and toxic exposures during service.
Lung cancer remains the top cancer killer in the U.S. We’ve made too much progress to turn back now. Please act to protect this vital funding.
We can’t afford to lose momentum in the fight against lung cancer. Your voice matters—take action today.
