SUPPORTING THE GOALS AND IDEALS OF PANCREATIC CANCER AWARENESS MONTH -- (House of Representatives - October 06, 2005)
Mr. DUNCAN. Madam Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and agree to the resolution (H. Res. 276) supporting the goals and ideals of Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month.
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Mr. DUNCAN. Madam Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume.
Madam Speaker, House Resolution 276, offered by the distinguished gentleman from Pennsylvania (Mr. Platts), would increase awareness about a horrible disease, pancreatic cancer.
This year, over 31,000 people will be diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. Because of the lack of early detection methods, 99 percent of those diagnosed will lose their lives, the highest mortality rate of any form of cancer. By the time the symptoms present themselves, it is almost always too late for a positive prognosis. Diagnosed patients have an average life expectancy of only 3 to 6 months.
Although pancreatic cancer is the fourth most common cancer, many Americans are not aware of the devastating statistics associated with the disease. Currently, the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network, known as Pan CAN, is the only national advocacy organization available for pancreatic cancer patients as well as their families and friends. This outstanding organization exists to create awareness, patient support, professional education and advocacy for pancreatic cancer funding.
Pan CAN regards each November as Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month. With the adoption of House Resolution 276, Congress would be further increasing awareness of pancreatic cancer. As a Nation, we desperately need to improve detection and treatment approaches and avenues. This is a cancer that has touched many people, including the only brother of one of my brothers-in-law, a young boy who passed away at the age of 13 with this very devastating disease.
Madam Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.
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Mr. DUNCAN. Madam Speaker, I have no additional requests for time, I urge all Members to support the adoption of H. Res. 276, and I yield back the balance of my time.
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