MRF Statement of Support for Research & Science

We are aware of the many questions and concerns surrounding this Administration’s position on federal funding for scientific research. The Melanoma Research Foundation (MRF), however, remains steadfast in our unwavering commitment to support the melanoma scientific and patient communities.  

To date, the FDA has approved 20 drugs that can be used singly or in combination to treat 31 melanoma indications in adult and pediatric patients. This progress has had a substantial impact on the melanoma community, increasing the 10-year melanoma specific survival rates for patients with metastatic cutaneous melanoma by 10-fold (from 5% to 50%). However, we know that more advancements are needed to fuel long-term survival in subpopulations of melanoma patients as well as cutaneous (skin) melanoma patients. We must continue to prioritize financial investment in our research and science grant program to further our mission of enhancing medical research with the purpose of eradicating melanoma.  

Since 1998, the MRF has awarded over 350 research grants totaling $26 million in funding to support the scientific melanoma community from medical students to established investigators. Additionally, we have and will continue to advocate for the continuation of $40 million in Department of Defense-appropriated funding for the Melanoma Research Program (MRP) within the Congressionally Directed Medical Research Programs (CDMRP), annually. This federal funding request has been a cornerstone of our Advocacy Days program as our advocates meet with lawmakers each year to encourage their support of this pivotal funding. 

Despite the uncertainty surrounding this Administration’s position on federal dollars for scientific research, the MRF is adamant in its support for funding research that will ultimately lead to scientific breakthroughs. Now more than ever, we rely on you – the patient and caregiver community – to help fund and advocate for critical lifesaving research. You can do that by:  

– Participating in Advocacy Days (March 2-4)

-Donate to the Legacy of Progress Endowment Fund to help amplify our investments in critical research grants and initiatives for years to come

-Contact [email protected] to directly fund a research grant

Sincerely,  

Kyleigh LiPira, MBA and Doug Brodman  

MRF CEO and MRF Board Chair