Creates the lymphedema and lymphatic diseases research grants program

2 Co-sponsors

• Timothy M. Kennedy
• Diane J. Savino

BILL NUMBER:S3072A

Title of bill

An act to amend the public authorities law, in relation to establishing a lymphedema and lymphatic diseases research grants program; and to amend the state finance law, in relation to creating the lymphedema and lymphatic diseases research and education fund

Purpose

The purpose of this legislation is to promote greater scien- tific understanding of lymphedema and lymphatic disease by establishing a lymphedema and lymphatic disease research grants program. Grants, not to exceed fifty thousand dollars, would be awarded on a completive basis to biomedical research institutions that are conducting direct research related to lymphedema and lymphatic disease.

Summary of provisions

The public authorities law is amended by adding a new section 3153-A to establish a lymphedema and lymphatic disease research grants program.

Justification

This legislation would establish a lymphedema and lymp- hatic disease research grants program. Grants, not to exceed fifty thou- sand dollars, would be awarded on a completive basis to biomedical research institutions that are conducting direct research related to lymphedema and lymphatic disease. Lymphedema is an accumulation of lymp- hatic fluid in the interstitial tissue that causes swelling, most often in the anncs) or lezes), and occasionally in other parts of the body. Lymphedema can develop when lymphatic vessels are missing or impaired (primary), or when lymph vessels are damaged or lymph nodes removed (secondary). Radiation therapy, used in the treatment of various cancers and some AIDS-related diseases, can damage otherwise healthy lymph nodes and vessels causing scar tissue to form which interrupts the normal flow of the lymphatic fluid. Moreover, untreated, lymphedema can lead into a decrease or loss of functioning of the limbs, skin breakdown, and chron- ic infections. In the most severe cases, untreated lymphedema can devel- op into a rare form of lymphatic cancer. This legislation would provide much need funding to those involved in direct research of lymphedema or lymphatic diseases. These diseases are far more common than society notes; however, funding for research has historically not kept pace to the dramatically growing need for it.

Legislative history

2013: S.3072 - Reported to and Committed to Finance 2011-12: S.882A of 2011 - Referred to Corporations, Authorities & Commissions 2009-10: S.2585A - Referred to Corporations, Authorities & Commissions 2007-08: S4266A - Committed to Rules

Fiscal implications

Subject to available appropriations.

Effective date

This act shall take effect immediately.