This year, a record number of medical treatments are in short supply. 180 drugs that are critical for treating childhood leukemia and other cancers and diseases are running dangerously low; and also, prices for some treatments have risen as much as eighty times more than in the past.

This crisis puts lives on the line and limits the accessibility of vital treatments, leaving low-income families without the help they need. If the shortage continues, it could result in millions losing their lives to treatable diseases.

Last October, President Obama issued an executive order for drug companies to alert the FDA when problems threaten treatment supplies. Tell Congress to pass this legislation to give the FDA the resources and authority it needs to combat drug shortages -- it will save lives!

Dear Members of Congress:

I am writing to express my deep concern for this year's record number of drug shortages in the United States--180 total that are vital for treating critial illnesses, diseases, and cancers.

This drug shortage, if it is to continue or becomes worse, will result in thousands, maybe millions, losing their lives to entirely treatable diseases.

The country has seen a couple of close calls this past year, where U.S. suppliers of methotrexate became dangerously close to running out of this drug, which is a key treatment for childhood leukemia.

[Your comments]

It has also come to my attention that the prices for some drugs have risen as much as eighty times more than traditional prices. This presents a serious problem especially for low-income families, limiting the accessibility for these treatments to only those who can afford them.

I urge you to pass H.R. 2245 and S. 296 which would prevent drug shortages by giving the FDA the resources and authority it needs to combat these shortages. This legislation will prevent needless suffering and save lives. Thank you for your consideration.

Sincerely,

[Your name here]