The Merck Foundation is sending a clear message: Cancer care should be equal for all. That’s why the Rahway-based Foundation launched a $20 million initiative Sept. 8 toward that goal. 

The Alliance for Equity in Cancer Care is a five-year plan designed to help patients living in underserved communities receive timely access to high-quality, culturally responsive care, the Foundation said in a statement. 

“The severity of the need to take action on advancing equity in cancer care cannot be overstated and will not be overlooked,” CEO Carmen Villar said. “We must move with urgency and work together to provide all people living with cancer access to high-quality care and treatment.” 

Through the initiative, the Foundation is awarding grants to health care nonprofits around the country – including RWJBarnabas Health right here in the Garden State – to develop programs that work toward advancing equity in cancer care.

According to the Foundation, nearly 40% of Americans will be diagnosed with cancer in their lifetime. Those who are disproportionately affected by the disease – including members of racial and ethnic minority groups, those living in rural areas, low-income individuals and the uninsured – often have limited access to care, which can lead to serious negative consequences. 

To help the organizations that receive grants build out their programs, the Foundation joined forces with Virginia Commonwealth University Massey Cancer Center, in partnership with the VCU Center on Health Disparities, to support a National Program Office, which will also evaluate each program and promote best practices in cancer care. 

“There is no one-size-fits-all approach to making sure that cancer care is equitable,” said Dr. Robert Winn, director of the Massey center and the national office. “We are supporting diverse approaches – driven by local community needs – to reduce the unacceptable disparities in cancer care. We hope to improve the lives of people living with cancer and help transform how health systems deliver care so that it meets the medical and social needs of patients.” 

Established in 1957, the Foundation is funded entirely by Merck. Since its inception, it has contributed nearly $1 billion to support initiatives that address critical global health and societal needs.