Memorializing Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim September 2026, as Prostate Cancer Awareness Month in the State of New York

Assembly Resolution No. 1537

BY: M. of A. Rules (Bichotte Hermelyn)

        MEMORIALIZING  Governor  Kathy  Hochul to proclaim
        September 2026, as Prostate Cancer  Awareness  Month
        in the State of New York

  WHEREAS,   This   Legislative  Body  recognizes  the  importance  of
advancing health equity and raising awareness about preventable diseases
that disproportionately impact underserved communities; and

  WHEREAS, Prostate cancer is one of the most diagnosed cancers  among
men in the United States, and African American men are more likely to be
diagnosed  at  an  advanced  stage  and die from the disease compared to
other groups; and

  WHEREAS, Each year, nearly 15,500 New  Yorkers  are  diagnosed  with
prostate  cancer,  and about 1,700 die from this disease annually; it is
estimated that one in seven men  will  develop  prostate  cancer  during
their lifetime; and

  WHEREAS,  The  month  of  September provides an opportunity to raise
awareness  around  prostate  cancer  and  to  promote  early  detection,
equitable access to care, and community education; and

  WHEREAS,  Citizens  of the State of New York and the Nation at large
are encouraged to wear  a  light  blue  ribbon-the  symbol  of  prostate
cancer-to promote awareness of the disease and demonstrate their support
for individuals affected; and

  WHEREAS, Education and early screening can save lives, yet many men,
especially  those  in  marginalized  communities,  lack  access  to  the
necessary health information and preventive services; and

  WHEREAS,  Community  leaders,   faith-based   institutions,   health
professionals,  and  advocates play a vital role in breaking the silence
around men's health, reducing  stigma,  and  connecting  individuals  to
resources and support; and

  WHEREAS,  The  State  of  New  York is committed to advancing health
justice and ensuring that all men, regardless of  race,  background,  or
income,  receive  the knowledge and care they need to live long, healthy
lives; now, therefore, be it

  RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its  deliberations  to
memorialize  Governor  Kathy  Hochul  to  proclaim  September  2026,  as
Prostate Cancer Awareness Month in the State of  New  York;  and  be  it
further

  RESOLVED,  That  copies  of  this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to The Honorable Kathy Hochul, Governor of the State of  New
York,  and  community  partners,  health  organizations,  and  advocates
committed to improving prostate cancer outcomes and saving lives.