On the cutting edge

Kansas is poised to take the lead on cutting-edge cancer research, which will be both an economic boon for the state as well as the future of Kansas health care.

The University of Kansas Cancer Center, which I just toured, is working to achieve the National Cancer Institute’s “Cancer Center Designation” in the coming years.

While the institute is already an important part of the Kansas City Life Sciences initiative, a National Cancer Center Designation would improve cancer care and treatments available to Kansans from Goodland to Pittsburg. Instead of traveling out of state, Kansans could stay right here to get cutting-edge treatments.

Likewise, it would be a catalyst in working to bring new research and massive economic development opportunities to this area, particularly when combined with the university’s existing pharmaceutical research and development. With the help of the Kansas Bioscience Authority, the Cancer Center will move drugs to Kansas companies for production and sales, resulting in job creation and a huge economic impact for the area.

As a member of the Senate Health and Finance Committees, I plan to lead efforts in Washington to promote the University of Kansas Cancer Center’s bid to achieve the National Cancer Institute designation as it works to make the final application by September 2011.