By: Ken E.

In my lifetime, I have seen major advancements in patient care. New medicines have led to cures for smallpox and Hepatitis C, innovative treatments have been able to combat HIV/AIDS and Multiple Sclerosis progressions, and breakthrough cancer findings have helped get closer to finding a cure. 

It was great to praise these advancements from the sideline, until it became personal when my doctor diagnosed me with prostate cancer. 

Prostate cancer is the second leading cause of cancer deaths for American men, with about one in every eight men in the United States receiving a diagnosis of prostate cancer in their lifetime. For Black men, the odds are even more alarming, facing a significantly higher likelihood of developing prostate cancer and a death rate two to four times greater.

America’s biopharmaceutical scientists and researchers are working diligently to uncover new findings and test new approaches to combating cancerous cells. So thankfully now, there are more treatment options than ever before, and today, the five-year survival rate for prostate cancer patients is up to 98%.

I know this firsthand as I recently entered remission. It was a moment of immense relief and gratitude—made possible by innovative medicines and treatment methods that gave me a second chance. And I’m not alone; a recent patient experience survey found that the vast majority of Americans—91%—see medicines to treat the most deadly diseases as a source of hope for the future.

We cannot afford to take this progress for granted. Everyone in the health care ecosystem must work together to ensure that there is an environment to develop and access these medicines.

This starts with ensuring that biopharmaceutical researchers, scientists, and entrepreneurs have the resources needed to develop the next generation of medicines, treatments, and potential cures for patients in need. Without this support, future patients will only suffer. 

And once new medicines are brought to market it is imperative that patients can be able to access them. Removing barriers or passing policies that could increase access to care puts patients first. 

As we look ahead to 2025, I hope the United States will continue to prioritize the development of new treatments and medicines. These advancements helped save my life, and we must ensure they remain accessible for countless others who depend on them.

Learn more about how patients value innovation, personalization and choice in medicines, as well as their overall perspectives on engaging with the health care system.