North Austin News

Congressmen Michael McCaul (R-Texas) and Mike Quigley (D-Ill.) have introduced a resolution recognizing May 2024 as National Brain Tumor Awareness Month.

“In the United States, brain tumors are the leading cause of death for children with cancer, and it is estimated that 18,870 Americans will pass away this year alone because of a malignant brain tumor,” said Rep. McCaul. “Despite these heartbreaking numbers, there are very few treatment options for those fighting brain tumors. This resolution reaffirms our dedication to bringing awareness and working to find solutions to save thousands of lives.”

“Each year, I am proud to introduce this resolution and send a message to those living with a brain tumor: you are not forgotten. With so many Americans impacted, it is critical that Congress do more to help build momentum in efforts to accelerate breakthroughs in research and ultimately defeat brain tumors once and for all,” said Rep. Quigley. “Going forward, let us honor those who have lost their lives to a brain tumor and advocate for efforts that will one day defeat this devastating disease.”

"National Brain Tumor Society (NBTS) applauds Representative Quigley and Representative McCaul for continuing to highlight the importance of recognizing May as National Brain Tumor Awareness Month,” said David Arons, President and CEO of NBTS. “This resolution helps raise public awareness of brain tumors while honoring those who have lost their lives or loved ones to this devastating group of diseases or are currently living with a brain tumor diagnosis.”

Each year, tens of thousands of Americans receive a primary brain tumor diagnosis which carries a five-year survival rate of only 36 percent for malignant tumors. Today, more than one million people in the United States are estimated to be living with a primary brain tumor and approximately 94,000 more will be diagnosed in 2024. Mortality rates associated with brain tumors have changed little in recent decades; they remain the leading cause of death from cancer in children and teens.

In addition to encouraging increased public awareness and expressing support for individuals battling brain tumors, Reps. McCaul's and Quigley's resolution urges a collaborative approach to brain tumor research. This aims to harness advances made both by private non-profit research foundations and federally supported medical research institutions.

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