CPRIT new report confirms devastating effects of cancer costs in Texas

A new report recently released by the Cancer Prevention and Research Institute of Texas (CPRIT) confirms the devastating effects of the cost of cancer in the state of Texas. Annual direct medical costs and the costs of morbidity and mortality losses associated with cancer in Texas now total $25.3 billion, a 15.8% increase since 2007. In contrast to this spiraling increase, the report also estimates that CPRIT-funded programs in cancer research and prevention in the state have a total economic impact in Texas of $852.3 million in output.

"None of us are surprised by these findings. Unfortunately, cancer affects the lives of more and more Texans each year. This report confirms that the state of Texas is attacking this unrelenting disease head-on - by funding research and prevention efforts to eradicate cancer in our lifetime," stated Jimmy Mansour, chairman of CPRIT's governing board.

The report, prepared by The Perryman Group, also points out that funds expended for CPRIT operations and programs are estimated to generate $265.6 million in annual state revenue, as well as $169.7 million in annual revenue to various local governments. These gains, though focused specifically on business activity through CPRIT investments, might be just the beginning. Research could lead to better prevention, diagnoses and treatments that lessen the cost of cancer and yield spinoff companies.

"Once again, Texas leads the country in its commitment to defeating cancer," said CPRIT Executive Director Bill Gimson. "We are saving lives, preventing cancer cases and bring a return back to our state."