STATEHOUSE (Jan. 24, 2025) – A bill co-authored by State Rep. Ryan Lauer (R-Columbus) to create a new grant program for pediatric cancer research now moves to the House for further consideration.
Lauer said through House Bill 1453, the Pediatric Cancer Research and Treatment Grant Program would focus on providing grant funding for innovative research into novel forms of treatment.
"One Hoosier child fighting cancer is one too many, and we need to take more steps toward promoting valuable research that may save a young life," Lauer said. "Through this bill Indiana could create a new way to boost funding and awareness to this vital area of medical research."
According to the Indiana Department of Health, more than 300 new cases of pediatric cancer occurred each year in Hoosier children ages 0 to 19 between 2016 to 2020. Additionally, more than 30 children in Indiana died from cancer annually between 2016 to 2020.
According to the American Cancer Society, more than 9,000 children in the U.S. are expected to be diagnosed with cancer in 2025. Cancer is the second leading cause of death in children ages 1 to 14, and over 1,000 children under age 15 are expected to die from cancer in 2025.
Lauer said by further funding pediatric cancer research, novel therapies developed in Indiana could have an impact not only in our state, but could also lead to treatments used throughout the U.S.
House Bill 1453 now moves to the House for further consideration. To learn more about the bill and follow session, visit iga.in.gov.
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State Rep. Ryan Lauer (R-Columbus) represents House District 59,
which includes a portion of Bartholomew County.
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