Recognizing March 1, 2017, as Childhood Cancer Awareness Day.
The resolution commends the essential role of caregivers—family members, physicians, nurses, and technicians—who provide support and care for young patients dealing with cancer. It acknowledges the emotional distress surrounding a cancer diagnosis and reinforces the necessity for a support system to help children navigate their journey towards recovery. This acknowledgment helps to promote emotional and psychological support for affected children and their families, which is crucial in fostering a positive environment for recovery.
Senate Resolution No. 320 recognizes March 1, 2017, as Childhood Cancer Awareness Day at the Texas State Capitol. This resolution highlights the significant impact of cancer as the leading cause of death from disease among children and adolescents in Texas. The resolution notes alarming statistics, including that over 1,600 Texans aged 19 or younger were diagnosed with cancer in 2014 and estimates that one in 285 individuals will face a cancer diagnosis before the age of 20. Furthermore, it details a concerning trend of a 24 percent increase in childhood cancer cases over the past 40 years.
Additionally, the resolution references the establishment of the Cancer Prevention and Research Institute of Texas, following a 2007 constitutional amendment, which aims to expedite innovation in cancer research and treatment development. It emphasizes that this institution devotes a significant portion of its funding—10 percent—to childhood cancers. The commitment to conducting research within Texas, by Texas-based scientists, demonstrates local support for addressing this critical health issue and underlines the importance of community involvement in healthcare initiatives.