Bill Text: CA AR120 | 2023-2024 | Regular Session | Introduced
Bill Title: Relative to Blood Cancer Awareness Month.
Spectrum: Slight Partisan Bill (Democrat 41-16)
Status: (Passed) 2024-08-22 - Read. Adopted. (Ayes 57. Noes 0. Page 6455.). [AR120 Detail]
Download: California-2023-AR120-Introduced.html
CALIFORNIA LEGISLATURE—
2023–2024 REGULAR SESSION
House Resolution
No. 120
| Introduced by Assembly Member Calderon |
August 13, 2024 |
Relative to Blood Cancer Awareness Month.
LEGISLATIVE COUNSEL'S DIGEST
HR 120, as introduced, Calderon.
Digest Key
Bill Text
WHEREAS, Each September, national Blood Cancer Awareness Month emphasizes the symptoms, causes, and ongoing innovations in the treatment of cancers of the blood and lymphatic systems; and
WHEREAS, This month is dedicated to raising awareness about the various forms of blood cancers, including leukemia, lymphoma, multiple myeloma, and myelodysplastic syndromes, with the aim of educating the public on their causes, symptoms, treatments, and research advancements; and
WHEREAS, Blood cancers primarily affect white blood cells and may, in certain cases, also target red blood cells or platelets. In the absence of definitive screening methods, it is crucial to recognize symptoms and risk factors to seek timely medical intervention; and
WHEREAS, Common symptoms of blood cancers include swelling of the lymph nodes, persistent fatigue, night sweats, fever, shortness of breath, and unexpected weight loss; and
WHEREAS, Risk factors encompass family history, genetic disorders, lifestyle choices, such as smoking, and exposure to radiation or chemotherapy; and
WHEREAS, The United States witnesses approximately 14,000 new cases of blood cancers each month. Although the survival rates for diseases such as leukemia have significantly improved since the 1960s, these rates vary depending on the specific type of cancer and are influenced by ongoing scientific advancements; and
WHEREAS, Every nine minutes, an individual in the United States succumbs to blood cancer, representing nearly 10 percent of all cancer-related deaths in the nation; and
WHEREAS, In 2024, it is estimated that an alarming number of Californians will be diagnosed with leukemia; and
WHEREAS, Leukemia accounts for approximately one-third of all childhood cancer cases, making it the most prevalent cancer among children; and
WHEREAS, Leaders in medicine and bioscience have tirelessly sought solutions, developing next-generation treatments to dramatically improve the lives of patients affected by blood cancer; and
WHEREAS, By fostering collaborations and partnerships across the scientific, medical, patient, and caregiver support sectors, these leaders underscore a unified commitment to finding cures and transforming lives; and
WHEREAS, Efforts within our communities to promote dialogue and education about blood cancers significantly contribute to the overall well-being of all Californians; and
WHEREAS, It is essential to intensify awareness and action on this critical health issue at the local, state, and national levels; now, therefore, be it
Resolved by the Assembly of the State of California, That the Assembly hereby designates September 2024 as Blood Cancer Awareness Month in the State of California; and be it further
Resolved, That the Chief Clerk of the Assembly transmit copies of this resolution to the author for appropriate distribution.
