Recognizing Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month

Floor Speech

Mr. ISSA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of tens of thousands of women and their families. In 2012, over 22,000 women will be diagnosed with ovarian cancer. Tragically, 15,500 will die from this disease. Ovarian cancer is the deadliest gynecological cancer among American women.

This September, we recognize Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month, honoring those who have battled cancer--and those who continue to struggle with the disease. Their courage is an inspiration to all of us and a reminder that together, we can beat ovarian cancer.

With early diagnosis, ovarian cancer is survivable. Over 95% of women who detect ovarian cancer during the early stages of the disease defeat the disease. By learning the symptoms, checking their family histories and visiting with their doctors, women can detect ovarian cancer before it's too late.

No one and no family should have to face ovarian cancer without the knowledge necessary to detect and defeat it. Along with my fellow Congressmen and citizens, I am proud to have helped fight ovarian cancer. In 2005, I joined my colleagues to create a federal educational campaign for gynecological cancer, urging the Center for Disease Control and the Office of Women's Health to cooperate with non-profits to raise cancer awareness among women and health practitioners.

That year, I also successfully introduced Johanna's Law. In memory of Johanna Silver, who lost her life to cancer after a three and a half month battle with ovarian cancer, Johanna's Law has helped increase awareness of gynecological cancers.

I urge all members to recognize and remember Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month and the impact of cancer upon our community.

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