A bipartisan resolution recently proposed by U.S. Reps. Mike Kelly (R-PA) and Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA) would recognize Sept. 30 as Rare Cancer Day to highlight the challenges patients face and to unify individuals living with rare cancers for awareness and early diagnosis.
“Cancer does not discriminate, it has impacted all of us in some way,” Rep. Kelly said on Monday. “Today, we recognize Rare Cancer Day to raise awareness and support research that will work toward a brighter tomorrow for all Americans who are battling cancer.”
Rep. Kelly on Sept. 27 sponsored House Resolution 1521 alongside four original cosponsors, including Rep. Fitzpatrick and U.S. Rep. Derek Kilmer (D-WA), to observe Sept. 30 as Rare Cancer Day for the approximately one-in-five Americans living with a rare cancer.
“Every year, over 400,000 Americans are diagnosed with a rare form of cancer,” said Rep. Fitzpatrick. “Together with my colleagues in the House Cancer Caucus, we are determined to raise awareness for early detection and make sure that every individual fighting these relentless and often overlooked cancers is recognized, supported, and never forgotten.
“This bipartisan resolution is a step toward that goal, standing in solidarity with those patients and their loved ones,” the congressman added.
Additionally, all pediatric cancers are considered rare, according to the National Organization for Rare Disorders, which reports that 15 million children in the United States are living with rare cancers.
“Far too many families have been touched by cancer,” Rep. Kilmer said. “It’s essential that Congress does its part to invest in cancer research and raise awareness for the millions of Americans who are battling cancer.”
The Patient Activation Group, the NORD Rare Cancer Coalition, the TargetCancer Foundation, and Coherus BioSciences endorsed the resolution.