Maryland Cancer Moonshot Initiative Promises $216 Million for Research and Treatment

Maryland will be committing $216 million to expand and accelerate cancer detection, screening, prevention, treatment, and research through Governor Larry Hogan’s recently announced “Maryland Cancer Moonshot Initiative.”

Governor Larry Hogan explained the personal significance of the initiative in a press release:

“The reality is that cancer is a disease that has touched nearly every one of us, through family or loved ones,” said Governor Hogan. “On the day I found out I was cancer-free, I pledged that as long as I am governor and long after, I will stand with all those who are fighting this terrible disease. That is why today, I am announcing the Maryland Cancer Moonshot, to dramatically accelerate all of our efforts to detect, prevent, treat, and find a cure for cancer, so that more lives can be saved. This is a watershed moment in the fight against cancer in our state and the region.”

The substantial initial investment is a part of Governor Hogan’s fifth supplemental budget and will include funding for the following:

Greenebaum Cancer Center: $100 million for the expansion of the University of Maryland Medical System’s Greenebaum Comprehensive Cancer Center (UMGCCC) in downtown Baltimore to provide state-of-the-art inpatient and outpatient cancer services. UMGCCC, which is a National Cancer Institute-designated comprehensive cancer center, treats approximately 3,000 new patients annually. This investment completes the state’s commitment to the project.

Prince George’s Comprehensive Cancer Center$67 million to fully fund the construction of a new comprehensive cancer center on the campus of the new University of Maryland Capitol Region Medical Center in Largo. This best-in-class cancer will be a premiere clinical and research center to serve the residents of Prince George’s County and the region. The state funding includes a $27 million commitment by the governor, a $13.5 million commitment by the Maryland Senate and a $26.5 million commitment by the Maryland House of Delegates.

Cancer Research$25 million for the University of Maryland School of Medicine and Johns Hopkins University to accelerate cancer research projects.

Pediatric Cancer Research$1 million to support expanding pediatric cancer research at the University of Maryland School of Medicine.

Stem Cell Research Fund$20.5 million for the Maryland Stem Cell Research Fund (MSCRF) to catalyze investment in regenerative medicine projects to develop novel cures and groundbreaking treatments for prevalent cancers.

Maryland Tech Council$2.5 million for the BioHub Maryland Initiative to expand the state’s life sciences and biotechnology research workforce, with a focus on talent development, upskilling opportunities, and outreach to students in underserved communities. Maryland is proud to be home to one of the top biotech clusters in the United States.

Read the full press release.