The Congressional Skin Cancer Caucus was approved as an official congressional member organization July 1 to support legislative activities and promote public awareness about skin cancer, the American Academy of Dermatology said in a statement.
The caucus is cosponsored by Rep. Jim Cooper (D-Tenn.), Rep. Carolyn Maloney (D-N.Y.), Rep. Peter Roskam (R-Ill.), and Rep. Charlie Dent (R-Pa.), and supported by the American College of Mohs Surgery and the AAD.
"As dermatologists on the front lines fighting skin cancer ... we are delighted to see this new caucus come to fruition," Dr. Dirk M. Elston, AAD president, said in a statement. "This bipartisan group has the potential to not only save lives but decrease skin cancer–related health care costs in the future."
Dr. Brent Moody, chairman of the public policy committee for the Mohs College, said in a statement, "The Mohs College, in partnership with the [AAD] and other advocates, including federal agencies, will work with the caucus to identify opportunities to further the mission of this new organization."
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