By CAC2 Individual Member Joe Baber Because of my grandson, Conor, a neuroblastoma survivor, I have met so many people in our childhood cancer community who want to improve the outcomes of children fighting cancer. We either have children in treatment for cancer or have children who are survivors or have died because of it. We’re all thankful when there are lifesaving therapies and at the very same time, we are fearful of relapse, side effects of the drugs, chemotherapy, radiation, surgery and even death. These contrary and parallel emotions seem to be linked in partnership throughout the childhood cancer […]
Read moreThe National Cancer Institute’s new Molecular Characterization Initiative (MCI) fosters data sharing in childhood cancer research. The program is expanding comprehensive molecular characterization of tumors to children, adolescents, and young adults (AYAs) with newly diagnosed soft tissue sarcomas receiving care at hospitals affiliated with the Children’s Oncology Group. The DNA and RNA in participants’ tumors are analyzed through this voluntary, free program. This effort is in addition to the previous cohort that targeted the molecular characterization of newly diagnosed central nervous system tumors in children and AYA patients. Participants’ tumor and blood samples are analyzed in an accredited lab, with […]
Read moreDuring last week’s Childhood Cancer Action Day, legislation to reauthorize the Childhood Cancer STAR Act was introduced in both chambers of Congress! The original STAR Act was signed into law in 2018 after unprecedented support from our community. It authorized five years of funding at $30 million annually from 2019-2023. Also, thanks to the community’s efforts the STAR Act has subsequently received those expected appropriations of $30 million each year. The STAR Act represents important bipartisan legislation designed to advance pediatric cancer research and child-focused cancer treatments, while also improving childhood cancer surveillance and providing enhanced resources for survivors. On April […]
Read moreThe National Cancer Institute’s new Molecular Characterization Initiative (MCI) fosters data sharing in childhood cancer research. The program currently offers comprehensive molecular characterization of tumors to children, adolescents, and young adults (AYAs) with newly diagnosed central nervous system tumors receiving care at hospitals affiliated with the Children’s Oncology Group. The DNA and RNA in participants’ tumors are analyzed through this voluntary, free program. Participants’ tumor and blood samples are analyzed in an accredited lab, with results shared with families and doctors within 21 days. This detailed information about the cancer can be used to make a more precise diagnosis, […]
Read moreA one-day advocacy campaign spotlighting the importance of childhood cancer prevention. 2022 theme: Prevention Matters. Find Social Media Toolkit on event page.
Read moreYou’re invited to join the Alliance for Childhood Cancer for the 11th Annual Childhood Cancer Action Days. This virtual event brings our community together to advocate for important childhood cancer issues currently before Congress.
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