Pennsylvania SR 226: A Resolution recognizing February 15, 2026, as "International Childhood Cancer Day" in Pennsylvania.

Bill Text

PRINTER'S NO. 1437
THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF PENNSYLVANIA
SENATE RESOLUTION
No. 226
Session of
2026
INTRODUCED BY MARTIN, SCHWANK, BROOKS, LAUGHLIN, BARTOLOTTA,
BROWN, HUGHES, COMITTA, J. WARD, FONTANA, ROBINSON, PHILLIPS-
HILL, STREET, VOGEL, HAYWOOD, COSTA AND CAPPELLETTI,
FEBRUARY 13, 2026
REFERRED TO RULES AND EXECUTIVE NOMINATIONS, FEBRUARY 13, 2026
A RESOLUTION
Recognizing February 15, 2026, as "International Childhood
Cancer Day" in Pennsylvania.
WHEREAS, "International Childhood Cancer Day" increases
awareness of children fighting pediatric cancer across the
globe; and
WHEREAS, "International Childhood Cancer Day" honors those
children who lost their battle with cancer; and
WHEREAS, According to the International Agency for Research
on Cancer, the most recent data shows that there were more than
270,000 pediatric and adolescent cancer diagnoses in 2022, with
more than 105,000 deaths; and
WHEREAS, Pediatric cancer statistics are often underreported
in many regions due to insufficient cancer registries,
especially in resource-poor countries, suggesting the true
numbers may be even higher; and
WHEREAS, The five-year relative survival rate for children
with cancer in high-income countries has increased to
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approximately 85%, though outcomes vary by cancer type, stage at
diagnosis and treatment availability; and
WHEREAS, Despite progress, survival rates for certain forms
of cancer remain significantly lower, highlighting the need for
continued research and more effective therapies; and
WHEREAS, Due to developing bodies and treatments often
designed for adults, children who undergo cancer treatment
frequently experience serious long-term side effects, including
growth and developmental issues, fertility challenges,
cardiovascular and endocrine dysfunction, neurological
impairments, secondary malignancies and learning disabilities;
and
WHEREAS, Possible late effects of cancer treatments include
cardiovascular problems, endocrine dysfunction, neurological
impairments, learning disabilities and an increased risk for
developing new cancers due to the aggressive nature of certain
treatments; and
WHEREAS, Despite advancements in treatment and survival,
pediatric cancer remains the leading cause of disease-related
death among children, and substantial work remains to reduce
mortality and enhance the quality of life for survivors;
therefore be it
RESOLVED, That the Senate recognize February 15, 2026, as
"International Childhood Cancer Day" in Pennsylvania; and be it
further
RESOLVED, That the Senate celebrate the progress made by
medical professionals, researchers and organizations dedicated
to fighting childhood cancer while renewing its commitment to
advancing research, improving treatments and expanding access to
lifesaving care for all children; and be it further
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RESOLVED, That the Senate express solidarity with young
Pennsylvanians battling cancer, honor the memory of those young
people who have lost their lives to childhood cancer and express
deep gratitude to the doctors, nurses, parents and caregivers
who provide critical support and care to those affected by
childhood cancer; and be it further
RESOLVED, That the Senate encourage all residents of this
Commonwealth to join the effort to raise awareness, support the
families of children with cancer, advocate for increased funding
for pediatric cancer research and contribute to a future where
no child has to face cancer alone.
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