In the near future, I will be introducing a resolution designating September 2026 as Childhood Cancer Awareness Month in Pennsylvania.

According to the American Cancer Society an estimated 9,680 new cancer cases will be diagnosed in America's children under the age of 15 this year.  For decades, childhood cancer rates had been increasing, but from 2015 through 2021, incidence rates slightly declined.

Roughly 85%-87% of children with cancer now survive at least 5 years due to major treatment advances in recent decades.  This is a significant increase since the mid-1970s when the 5-year survival rate was about 58%; however, these rates vary depending on the type of cancer and other factors.

Cancer is the second leading cause of death in children ages 1 to 14.  Over 1,000 children under the age of 15 are expected to die from cancer in 2026.

This resolution will encourage those young Pennsylvanians still in their fight, honor the young people who have tragically lost their lives to cancer, and show gratitude to the medical personnel for their care and commitment. 

I encourage all to join the fight against childhood cancer.

I appreciate your consideration!