The Florida House of Representatives has introduced House Resolution HR 8041, designating September 2025 as "Pediatric Cancer Awareness Month" in the state. This resolution highlights the critical issue of pediatric cancer, which is the leading cause of disease-related death among children and adolescents in the U.S. The aim of this awareness month is to raise public consciousness about the challenges faced by young cancer patients and to advocate for increased funding and research efforts dedicated to pediatric cancer.
The resolution emphasizes the alarming rise in pediatric cancer diagnoses in Florida, with over 1,000 new cases reported annually. It recognizes the various types of pediatric cancers, such as leukemia and brain tumors, which differ from those commonly seen in adults. Additionally, the resolution honors the resilience of children battling cancer, survivors, and the families and healthcare professionals who support them, while promoting community engagement through events and advocacy efforts to enhance research funding and treatment options for pediatric cancer.