Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation, Inc.

https://www.komen.org

Susan G. Komen is a leading breast cancer organization dedicated to saving lives by addressing the most critical needs within communities and investing in breakthrough research to prevent and cure breast cancer. Established in 1982, the organization operates as a non-profit entity with its headquarters located in Dallas, Texas, United States.

The organization's core activities encompass funding extensive breast cancer research, providing patient navigation and support services, and engaging in public policy advocacy. Key services include financial assistance programs for patients, a breast care helpline offering information and emotional support, and educational initiatives on breast health and cancer. Susan G. Komen has invested over $1.1 billion in research grants and offers various community programs, such as the Race for the Cure and MORE THAN PINK Walks, to raise awareness and funds.

As of August 2025, Paula Schneider, who served as President and CEO for seven years, announced her transition to Honorary Vice Chair, with a national search underway for her successor. Susan G. Komen is recognized as the world's largest breast cancer organization. Recent efforts include advocating for federal funding for breast cancer programs, supporting legislation like the Breast Cancer Research Stamp Reauthorization Act of 2026, and launching a new Metastatic Breast Cancer (MBC) Steering Committee to amplify patient voices and needs.

Latest updates

Komen St. Louis Walk Aims for $500K Amid Rising Breast Cancer Rates

Event summary

  • Susan G. Komen is holding its St. Louis MORE THAN PINK Walk on June 6, 2026, at Westport Plaza.
  • The event aims to raise over $500,000 to fund research and patient care services.
  • Approximately 6,300 Missourians will be diagnosed with breast cancer in 2026, with over 970 deaths expected.
  • Komen provided over $160,000 in financial assistance to 850 Missouri patients in fiscal year 2025.
  • Edward Jones is the presenting sponsor, with Dowd Bennett LLC and the St. Louis Cardinals as platinum partners.

The big picture

The St. Louis walk highlights the ongoing need for breast cancer research and patient support, particularly as diagnosis rates remain high and disparities in access to care persist. Komen's reliance on fundraising events like this underscores the challenges faced by large nonprofits in securing consistent funding. The event's sponsorship structure also reveals the importance of corporate partnerships in sustaining Komen's operations.

What we're watching

Fundraising Pressure
Whether Komen can consistently achieve its fundraising goals given the increasing cost of research and patient care, especially with economic uncertainty.
Policy Impact
How Komen’s Center for Public Policy will navigate potential shifts in state and federal healthcare funding priorities impacting access to care.
Corporate Partnerships
The sustainability of Komen’s reliance on corporate sponsorships, particularly given broader trends of corporate social responsibility and potential shifts in marketing budgets.

Komen Chicago Race Aims for $500K Amidst Rising Breast Cancer Rates

Event summary

  • The 2026 Komen Chicago Race for the Cure will be held on May 16, 2026, at Montrose Harbor.
  • The event aims to raise over $500,000 to fund research and patient care services.
  • Komen provided over $237,000 in financial assistance to 1,200 patients in Illinois during fiscal year 2025.
  • An estimated 321,910 women and 2,670 men will be diagnosed with breast cancer in the U.S. in 2026.

The big picture

Susan G. Komen operates within a healthcare landscape where preventative care and early detection are increasingly recognized as crucial for reducing mortality rates. The organization's reliance on fundraising events like the Chicago Race for the Cure highlights the ongoing need for philanthropic support to fund research and patient services, especially as healthcare costs continue to rise. The stated potential to prevent one-third of breast cancer deaths through universal access to modern treatments underscores the significant societal and economic impact of Komen’s mission.

What we're watching

Fundraising Pressure
Whether Komen can consistently meet its fundraising goals given broader economic uncertainties and increased competition for charitable donations will be a key indicator of its long-term sustainability.
Policy Impact
The effectiveness of Komen’s Center for Public Policy in influencing state and federal policies regarding breast cancer screening and treatment access will directly impact patient outcomes and the organization’s relevance.
Treatment Advances
The pace at which new treatments and preventative measures are adopted and made accessible will continue to shape the landscape of breast cancer mortality and Komen’s role in supporting affected communities.

Hawaii Bill Seeks to Eliminate Financial Barriers to Breast Imaging

Event summary

  • Hawaii Representative Lauren Matsuomto introduced HB 2366, aiming to eliminate out-of-pocket costs for medically necessary diagnostic and supplemental breast imaging.
  • The legislation targets costs ranging from $234 for a diagnostic mammogram to over $1,000 for a breast MRI.
  • A Komen-commissioned study found 1 in 5 patients would forgo follow-up imaging due to deductibles.
  • Susan G. Komen is advocating for the bill, citing its potential to improve early detection and reduce overall healthcare costs.

The big picture

This legislation reflects a growing recognition of the link between financial barriers and health equity, particularly in preventative care. The move could set a precedent for addressing cost-related disparities in other medical specialties and states, potentially influencing broader healthcare reform efforts. While the direct financial impact on Susan G. Komen is likely minimal, the bill reinforces their advocacy role and strengthens their brand image as a champion for accessible healthcare.

What we're watching

Legislative Passage
The bill's success hinges on navigating the legislative process and securing bipartisan support, given Representative Matsuomto's party affiliation.
Financial Impact
The state's budget will need to absorb the costs previously borne by patients, potentially impacting other healthcare programs or requiring new funding sources.
Adoption Spread
Other states facing similar affordability challenges may observe Hawaii's approach and consider similar legislation, potentially creating a broader trend in healthcare policy.

Breast Cancer Mortality Disparities Persist Despite Treatment Advances

Event summary

  • The U.S. breast cancer death rate has declined 44% between 1989 and 2023, averting an estimated 546,000 deaths.
  • Incidence of invasive breast cancer has been rising since the mid-2000s, increasing by 1% annually from 2013 to 2022, with a 1.4% annual increase among women under 50.
  • Breast cancer mortality remains 37% higher in Black women compared to white women, despite lower incidence.
  • Susan G. Komen estimates 43,000 U.S. deaths from breast cancer in 2026.

The big picture

While significant strides have been made in breast cancer treatment, the rising incidence and persistent mortality disparities highlight a complex public health challenge. The focus on personalized medicine and AI-driven diagnostics represents a shift towards more targeted interventions, but these advancements must be coupled with efforts to address systemic inequities in access to care and research participation. Komen's investment in research, totaling billions over decades, underscores the ongoing need for substantial funding and strategic partnerships to accelerate progress.

What we're watching

Equity Gaps
The persistence of racial and socioeconomic disparities in breast cancer mortality suggests that access to advanced treatments and screening remains a critical challenge, potentially limiting the overall impact of medical innovation.
AI Adoption
The integration of AI into breast cancer screening and risk prediction models will require careful monitoring to ensure equitable access and prevent the amplification of existing biases within datasets.
Clinical Trial Diversity
The low participation rates of historically marginalized groups in clinical trials pose a significant risk to the development of treatments that effectively address the needs of diverse populations, potentially hindering progress toward equitable outcomes.

Tennessee Bill Seeks to Remove Genetic Testing Cost Barriers

Event summary

  • Tennessee legislators introduced SB 1626 (Senate) and HB 1775 (House) on January 27, 2026.
  • The legislation aims to eliminate out-of-pocket costs for clinically appropriate germline genetic testing and related screenings.
  • Germline testing identifies inherited mutations present from birth, affecting 5-10% of breast cancer cases.
  • Approximately 83% of patients undergoing multigene panel testing experience changes in their medical management based on results.
  • Susan G. Komen is publicly supporting the legislation.

The big picture

This legislation reflects a growing trend toward proactive, personalized cancer care driven by advances in genetic testing. Removing financial barriers could significantly expand access to these tests, potentially leading to earlier diagnoses and improved outcomes, but also creating cost pressures on the healthcare system. The move signals a shift towards preventative healthcare and a recognition of the role of genetics in cancer risk assessment.

What we're watching

Legislative Passage
The bill's success hinges on navigating the Tennessee legislature, and potential amendments could significantly alter the scope of coverage and impact on healthcare providers.
Reimbursement Models
How insurers and state Medicaid programs adapt to cover these tests will determine the long-term financial sustainability of the program and impact on lab revenues.
Adoption Rate
The pace at which physicians and patients adopt the expanded testing options will dictate the actual impact on early detection rates and cancer outcomes.

Alabama Bill Seeks to Eliminate Financial Barriers to Breast Imaging

Event summary

  • Alabama legislators introduced HB 300 (House) and SB 177 (Senate) to eliminate out-of-pocket costs for diagnostic and supplemental breast imaging.
  • The legislation aims to address financial barriers preventing individuals from accessing medically necessary breast imaging like MRIs and ultrasounds.
  • A Komen-commissioned study found diagnostic mammograms can cost up to $234, while breast MRIs can exceed $1,000.
  • Alabama is one of 20 states without existing legislation supporting diagnostic screening after abnormalities are detected.

The big picture

This legislation reflects a growing recognition of the link between financial barriers and health outcomes, particularly in preventative care. By addressing the cost of diagnostic imaging, Alabama aims to improve early detection rates for breast cancer, which could ultimately reduce overall healthcare costs associated with later-stage treatment. The move also highlights the increasing role of advocacy groups like Susan G. Komen in shaping healthcare policy at the state level.

What we're watching

Legislative Passage
The bills' success hinges on bipartisan support within the Alabama legislature, given the Republican and Democratic sponsorship, and potential lobbying efforts from healthcare providers and insurers.
Provider Impact
The elimination of patient cost-sharing will likely shift the financial burden to the state or insurers, potentially impacting reimbursement rates for imaging providers and their willingness to offer these services.
Adoption Trend
Other states may observe Alabama’s approach and consider similar legislation, potentially creating a broader trend toward removing financial barriers to diagnostic imaging.

Florida Bill Seeks to Remove Genetic Testing Cost Barriers

Event summary

  • Florida legislators introduced SB 1372 and HB 1399, aiming to eliminate out-of-pocket costs for clinically appropriate germline genetic testing and related screenings.
  • The legislation targets multi-gene panel testing for inherited gene mutations, impacting approximately 5-10% of breast cancer cases in the U.S.
  • Studies indicate that 83% of patients undergoing multigene panel testing experience changes in their medical management, including treatment and screening adjustments.
  • Susan G. Komen is publicly supporting the bill, framing it as a measure to ensure equitable access to cancer risk information.

The big picture

This legislation reflects a growing trend toward incorporating precision medicine and proactive cancer screening into public health initiatives. By removing financial barriers, Florida aims to increase the utilization of genetic testing, potentially leading to earlier diagnoses and improved patient outcomes. The move could also create a template for other states considering similar policies, impacting the broader genetic testing market and potentially influencing Susan G. Komen’s advocacy efforts nationwide.

What we're watching

Legislative Passage
The bill's success hinges on navigating the Florida legislature, where bipartisan support exists but potential amendments or delays remain a risk.
Adoption Rate
The extent to which healthcare providers and patients adopt the newly accessible genetic testing services will determine the bill’s ultimate impact on cancer detection and treatment outcomes.
Reimbursement Models
How Florida's Medicaid and private insurers adapt their reimbursement models for genetic testing will be crucial for the long-term financial sustainability of the program.

Mississippi Bill Seeks to Remove Genetic Testing Cost Barriers

Event summary

  • Mississippi Representative Samuel Creekmore (R-New Albany) introduced House Bill 430 (HB 430) on January 22, 2026.
  • HB 430 aims to eliminate out-of-pocket costs for multi-gene panel genetic testing and related screenings.
  • Approximately 5-10% of breast cancers are linked to inherited gene mutations.
  • Studies indicate that 83% of patients undergoing multigene panel testing experience changes in their medical management.
  • Susan G. Komen is publicly supporting the legislation.

The big picture

This legislation reflects a growing recognition of the importance of preventative genetic testing in managing cancer risk, particularly as the cost of these tests declines and their clinical utility becomes more established. The move could serve as a template for other states seeking to improve healthcare equity and outcomes. Susan G. Komen's public endorsement signals a strategic alignment with policies that expand access to preventative care, potentially bolstering its advocacy efforts and fundraising appeal.

What we're watching

Legislative Passage
The bill's progression through the Mississippi legislature will reveal the level of bipartisan support for expanding genetic testing access, and potential amendments that could alter its scope.
Reimbursement Models
The long-term financial sustainability of the program will depend on how the state funds the eliminated patient costs, potentially impacting Medicaid or other state healthcare programs.
Adoption Rates
Increased accessibility will likely drive higher adoption rates of multigene panel testing, which could influence the demand for genetic counseling services and specialized oncology care.

Arizona Bill Seeks to Eliminate Financial Barriers to Breast Imaging

Event summary

  • Arizona State Senator Hildy Angius (R-Bullhead City) introduced Senate Bill 1165 on January 16, 2026.
  • The bill aims to eliminate out-of-pocket costs for medically necessary diagnostic and supplemental breast imaging, such as MRIs and ultrasounds.
  • Diagnostic imaging costs can range from $234 for a mammogram to over $1,000 for a breast MRI.
  • A Komen-commissioned study found that 1 in 5 patients would forgo follow-up imaging due to deductible costs.
  • Susan G. Komen is advocating for the bill, citing its potential to improve early detection and reduce overall healthcare costs.

The big picture

This legislation reflects a growing recognition of the inequitable impact of healthcare costs on access to essential medical services. The move to eliminate patient out-of-pocket expenses for diagnostic imaging aligns with broader trends toward value-based care and aims to improve early detection rates, ultimately reducing long-term healthcare expenditures. The bill's bipartisan support suggests a potential shift in political attitudes toward addressing healthcare affordability.

What we're watching

Legislative Passage
The bill's success hinges on navigating the Arizona legislature, and its bipartisan support will be tested as it moves through committees and faces potential amendments.
Reimbursement Impact
If passed, the bill will likely shift the financial burden of diagnostic imaging from patients to insurers or the state, potentially impacting reimbursement rates and healthcare provider revenue.
State Replication
The bill's outcome could serve as a model for similar legislation in other states, given that 30 states have already considered similar measures to address financial barriers in healthcare.

California Bill Seeks to Eliminate Breast Imaging Cost Barriers

Event summary

  • California Assembly Bill 1570, introduced by Assemblymember Lori Wilson, aims to eliminate out-of-pocket costs for medically necessary diagnostic and supplemental breast imaging.
  • The legislation targets costs ranging from $234 for a diagnostic mammogram to over $1,000 for a breast MRI.
  • A Komen-commissioned study found that 1 in 5 patients would forgo follow-up imaging due to deductible costs.
  • Susan G. Komen is advocating for the bill, citing its potential to improve early detection and reduce overall healthcare costs.

The big picture

This legislation reflects a growing trend toward addressing healthcare affordability and equity, particularly in preventative care. By removing financial barriers to diagnostic imaging, California is attempting to improve health outcomes and potentially reduce long-term healthcare expenditures associated with later-stage cancer diagnoses. The bill's success could serve as a model for other states facing similar challenges in ensuring equitable access to essential medical services.

What we're watching

Legislative Passage
The bill's success hinges on navigating the California legislative process and securing sufficient support to overcome potential opposition from healthcare providers or insurance companies.
Insurance Impact
How insurance companies will adapt to the new regulations and whether they will attempt to shift costs or limit coverage in other areas remains to be seen.
Patient Adoption
The extent to which this legislation will actually increase early detection rates will depend on patient awareness and willingness to utilize the newly accessible services.

Healthcare Policy Shifts Threaten Breast Cancer Access, Komen Launches Advocacy Blitz

Event summary

  • Susan G. Komen's Center for Public Policy has identified significant upcoming changes to healthcare coverage impacting breast cancer patients.
  • Proposed policy changes at both the federal and state levels risk increasing costs, reducing coverage, and weakening cancer programs.
  • The expiration of Affordable Care Act tax credits could lead to 4.2 million Americans losing coverage.
  • Komen is prioritizing advocacy efforts around legislation like H.R.2381/S.1866 (SCREENS Act), H.R.3037/S.1500 (ABCD Act), and H.R.2048/S.442 (Metastatic Breast Cancer Access to Care Act).

The big picture

Komen's aggressive advocacy stance signals a growing recognition that healthcare policy directly impacts patient outcomes and organizational mission. The scale of the potential coverage losses – 4.2 million Americans – highlights the systemic risk facing vulnerable populations. This proactive engagement positions Komen as a key stakeholder in the evolving healthcare landscape, potentially influencing legislative agendas and shaping public perception of healthcare reform.

What we're watching

Regulatory Headwinds
The success of Komen’s advocacy hinges on Congress’s willingness to extend Affordable Care Act tax credits, a politically charged issue with uncertain outcomes.
State Implementation
How states implement H.R.1 will significantly impact Medicaid patients and the effectiveness of Komen’s efforts to protect safety net programs.
Financial Toxicity
The ability of Komen to influence policy around out-of-pocket costs and genetic testing access will be a key indicator of its long-term impact on patient financial burdens.
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