ZERO Statement on Louisiana SB 84 Becoming Law

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Media Contact:
Eric Miller
VP, Communications
ZERO Prostate Cancer

eric.miller@zerocancer.org | media@zerocancer.org

ZERO Prostate Cancer celebrates the signing of SB 84 into law, a landmark victory that removes cost barriers to prostate cancer screening for high-risk patients across Louisiana. This new law represents a critical step toward improving early detection and saving lives in a state that faces some of the most urgent prostate cancer challenges in the nation.

A dedicated ZERO Advocate worked closely with Senator Brach Myers to introduce SB 84 this year, helping build strong bipartisan momentum behind the bill. SB 84 passed unanimously with the support of 50 co-sponsors, reflecting broad recognition of the need to eliminate financial barriers that prevent men from accessing lifesaving screening.

“Louisiana has far too many families impacted by prostate cancer, and SB 84 was introduced to remove financial barriers that can keep men from getting screened early,” said Senator Brach Myers, the bill’s author. “By ensuring coverage for prostate cancer screening without cost-sharing and by aligning access with nationally recognized guidelines, this law gives more Louisianans the chance to catch cancer earlier, when treatment is more effective, and lives can be saved. I want people to know that SB 84 is a practical, life-saving step for men and families across our state. I am grateful to ZERO CANCER, the advocates and survivors who shared their stories, the bipartisan group of legislators who supported this effort, and everyone who helped move this bill across the finish line in an effort to save more lives in Louisiana.”

Louisiana currently has the second-highest prostate cancer incidence rate of any state in the country. Removing cost barriers to screening is a vital step toward improving outcomes for men at the greatest risk — particularly Black men, who face disproportionately high rates of diagnosis and mortality.

With SB 84 now signed into law, Louisiana becomes the 12th state to eliminate cost barriers to prostate cancer screening for high-risk patients. ZERO Prostate Cancer is proud to stand with survivors, advocates, and lawmakers who are committed to advancing health equity and saving lives.

About ZERO Prostate Cancer

ZERO Prostate Cancer (ZERO) is on a mission to improve and save lives from prostate cancer through advocacy, education, awareness, and support. Formerly known as the National Prostate Cancer Coalition, ZERO was founded in 1996 to stand up for people impacted by prostate cancer. Today, ZERO serves as the nation's leading prostate cancer organization, advancing a future where prostate cancer detection is early, support is unwavering, and care is accessible to all. For over 30 years, ZERO has led the way in prostate cancer advocacy, screenings, and partnerships, successfully unlocking funding toward breakthrough discoveries, treatments, and lifesaving access to care.  

As the nation’s #1 provider of prostate cancer resources, programs, and services, ZERO has supported millions of people at-risk or diagnosed, and their families. As the voice of the prostate cancer community, ZERO's urgent focus on breaking barriers to survival—by closing gaps in diagnosis, treatment, and care—brings critical attention to those most likely to be impacted by this disease.  Learn more at ZEROcancer.org