PA SR226

Designates February 15, 2026, as "International Childhood Cancer Day" in Pennsylvania to increase awareness of pediatric cancer and honor children who have died from the disease

Cites 2022 data showing more than 270,000 pediatric and adolescent cancer diagnoses globally with over 105,000 deaths, noting these numbers may be underreported in resource-poor countries

Notes the five-year survival rate for childhood cancer in high-income countries has reached approximately 85%, though pediatric cancer remains the leading cause of disease-related death among children

Acknowledges long-term side effects children face from cancer treatment, including cardiovascular problems, fertility challenges, neurological impairments, and increased risk of secondary cancers

Encourages Pennsylvania residents to raise awareness, support affected families, and advocate for increased funding for pediatric cancer research