Cleaver, Davids Demand Answers on Halted Pediatric Brain Cancer Research

(Washington, D.C.) – Today, U.S. Representatives Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) and Sharice Davids (D-KS) have called on the National Institutes of Health (NIH) to provide information into the recent decision to cease federal funding for the Pediatric Brain Tumor Consortium (PBTC), which is the oldest pediatric cancer research network in the U.S. and consists of 15 hospitals and research centers nationwide. The PBTC oversees early-stage clinical trials and plays a critical role in the nation’s work to treat and cure pediatric brain cancer. Following an announcement last year, the administration officially ceased federal funding for the PBTC in March. 

“Brain cancer is the deadliest type of cancer among American children,” said Congressman Cleaver. “Rather than ending federal investments into essential studies and clinical trials that could provide the pathway to better treatments and an eventual cure, we should be increasing funding for pediatric cancer research. Even in today’s polarizing political climate, curing childhood cancer should have universal support. If the administration disagrees, I think the American people deserve to know why.”

“Families facing pediatric brain cancer are already dealing with the unimaginable — they should not also have to worry about whether critical research and clinical trials will disappear. Cutting that research threatens to stall lifesaving progress and leaves patients, families, and researchers with an incredible amount of uncertainty. Representative Cleaver and I are demanding answers and fighting to make sure this work continues so more children have a chance to survive and thrive,” said Rep. Sharice Davids.

“The Head for the Cure Foundation strongly supports the continued Federal funding of the Pediatric Brain Tumor Consortium (PBTC), which plays a critical role in advancing innovative research and clinical trials for children diagnosed with brain tumors. Pediatric brain tumors remain the leading cause of cancer-related death among children, underscoring the urgent need for sustained investment in research that can lead to safer treatments, improved outcomes, and ultimately cures,” said Maggie Haynes, Executive Director, Head for the Cure Foundation.

The official letter from Reps. Cleaver and Davids is available here.

Emanuel Cleaver, II is the U.S. Representative for Missouri's Fifth Congressional District, which includes Kansas City, Independence, Lee's Summit, Raytown, Grandview, Sugar Creek, Greenwood, Blue Springs, North Kansas City, Gladstone, and Claycomo. He is a member of the exclusive House Financial Services Committee and Ranking Member of the House Subcommittee on Housing and Insurance.