Posted on February 7th

On February 4, 2025, Less Cancer hosted its National Cancer Prevention Workshop with advocates, experts, and policymakers to discuss critical issues related to cancer prevention. Organized by Bill Couzens, founder of Less Cancer, the workshop provided a platform for impactful discussions on strategies for preventing cancer before it starts. Rep. Debbie Dingell set the tone for the day with her powerful opening remarks, emphasizing the urgent need for action to prevent cancer and reduce its impact on communities.

The insightful Miles O’Brien moderated the panel, which featured voices from the advocacy, science, and policy sectors. As panelists, we explored the connection between prevention, science-based policy, and the power of digital storytelling. The workshop highlighted the theme that “Prevention is the Cure.” Emphasizing proactive strategies, we discussed how policy and research must join forces to create a healthier future for all.

The workshop highlighted the importance of collaboration in cancer prevention. No single entity can tackle cancer prevention alone. Bringing together people from various disciplines—scientists, lawmakers, advocates, and affected communities—can drive lasting change. By fostering these partnerships, we can leverage diverse expertise to build stronger, more comprehensive policies focused on prevention.

Our conversation also highlighted the importance of science-based policies that align with the latest research. Evidence is the backbone of effective advocacy, and our policies must reflect the best available data. Science should guide legislative actions, ensuring that decisions are informed and cancer prevention strategies are both effective and sustainable.

ADAO reinforced the role of digital storytelling in advancing cancer prevention efforts and shared our new “Shared Stories: How Asbestos Changed Our Lives Forever” book. Through our powerful personal stories, we humanize the statistics and give a voice to those directly affected by cancer. These stories inspire action, connecting individuals and communities with the issues. Digital storytelling also serves as a critical tool for engaging a broader audience, ensuring that prevention becomes a central focus in media, policy, and public awareness campaigns.

In closing, the Less Cancer Prevention Day workshop reminded us that prevention is the ultimate cure and that together, we can create a future where cancer is no longer a leading cause of death. Thank you to Bill Couzens for organizing such a significant event, Miles O’Brien for his expert moderation, and Rep. Debbie Dingell for her unwavering leadership. Let us continue to collaborate, support science-based policies, and use the power of storytelling to inspire change.