Why NCI Funding is Vital to Cancer Research

According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), for every $100 million of funding, NIH-supported research generates 76 patents. These patents create opportunities for an estimated $598 million in further research and development — demonstrating a significant return on investment that NIH-supported research generates. Each year, NIH awards over 60,000 grants that directly support more than 300,000 researchers at more than 2,500 different institutions.

The National Cancer Institute (NCI), a center under the NIH, is the largest funder of cancer research in the world. In 2022, funds available to the NCI totaled $6.72 billion. NCI funding is the lifeblood of cancer research, driving innovation and discovery. It funds groundbreaking studies, clinical trials and collaborative efforts among some of the brightest minds in the world. These resources are essential for uncovering new treatments, understanding the biology of cancer and developing innovative therapies that save lives.

This support extends to high-risk, high-reward endeavors, allowing researchers to explore unconventional ideas that might lead to groundbreaking discoveries. Cancer is complex, and without NCI funding, many of the bold and creative ideas might never come to fruition. These projects have the potential to change the way we understand and treat cancer, and they rely on the financial backing provided by NIH.

Events such as the AACI/AACR Hill Day and Rally for Medical Research give us the opportunity to meet with the decision-makers — the people who ultimately decide where to allocate the dollars. At the Capitol, we advocate for consistent funding increases for NIH, which includes 27 institutes and centers comprising the NIH. I had the pleasure of attending both events this year, and it was energizing to see so many people, including fellow cancer center directors, researchers and survivors like Darren McLaughlin, united for one cause. Advocacy efforts play a crucial role in ensuring consistent and increased funding for research.

I appreciate members of Congress who took the time to listen to our stories. People like Darren are here today because of advances in cancer research and treatment.