NCI Prepublication Clearance Policy and Concerns Regarding Scientific Integrity

I am writing to formally put you on notice regarding a National Cancer Institute (NCI) policy requiring special clearance for publications on specific “controversial, high-profile, or sensitive” health topics. This directive threatens free speech, scientific integrity, and government transparency by subjecting research to bureaucratic approval before public release. According to the NCI memo, staff must submit work for review before publishing on the following topics: • Cancer Moonshot • NCI budget • COVID-19 • Vaccines • H5N1/bird flu • Opioids • Marijuana • Dietary guidelines/ultra-processed foods • Obesity • Stem cell or fetal tissue research • Abortion • Autism • Peanut allergies • Fluoride • Measles • Diversity/equity efforts • Gender ideology • Environmental justice • Discussion of federal policies • Topics of federal investigations • Issues concerning pending legislation • Topics that have received recent attention from Congress • Topics that have received widespread or critical media attention This policy restricts the ability of NCI scientists to communicate important public health research. Scientific communication should be based on evidence, not on administrative oversight influenced by political considerations. Restricting discussion on critical health topics like vaccines, opioids, or dietary guidelines undermines transparency and may prevent the public from accessing vital information. I respectfully request that you acknowledge this letter and formally raise the issue in Congress. I urge you to seek justification for this policy and take steps to ensure that federal agencies uphold the principles of scientific freedom and transparency.