Rep. Keith Ellison Marks National Breast Cancer Awareness Month

Statement

"This year, more than 200,000 women will be rattled by a diagnosis of breast cancer and thousands more will succumb to the disease. These women live in each of our neighborhoods, come from every walk of life and are our mothers, sisters, aunts, daughters, and friends. This tragic figure includes approximately 3,500 women and 30 men diagnosed with invasive breast cancer each year in Minnesota. It's very likely that each American family has been touched by the disease in some way.

"During October, which is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, we recognize the women battling this dreaded disease, the medical professionals who give them the best care, and the researchers endeavoring to find a cure.

"National Breast Cancer Awareness Month brings together professional medical associations, national public service organizations, and others to raise breast cancer awareness, help those who need to access support services, and learn more about early detection and prevention.

"I'm glad to be able to say that because of the Affordable Care Act, which I supported, many more women will be able to receive mammograms and other recommended cancer screenings without covering a co-pay or meeting a deductible. It will also ensure that no one can be denied health insurance because of pre-existing conditions, even breast cancer.

"Let us remember our loved ones, fight with those who are braving this disease, and promise to do all we can to eradicate breast cancer."

Source