IV 111th CONGRESS 1st Session H. CON. RES. 182 IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES September 10, 2009 Mrs. Myrick (for herself and Mrs. Capps) submitted the following concurrent resolution; which was referred to the Committee on Energy and Commerce CONCURRENT RESOLUTION Supporting the observance of September as Thyroid Cancer Awareness Month, and for other purposes.

Whereas thyroid cancer is the most common endocrine cancer; Whereas there are several types of thyroid cancer: papillary, follicular, medullary, anaplastic, and variants; Whereas thyroid cancer occurs in all age groups from children through seniors; Whereas nearly 2 out of 3 thyroid cancers are found in people between the ages of 20 and 55; Whereas thyroid cancers occur about 3 times more often in women than in men; Whereas the American Cancer Society estimates that there will be about 37,200 new cases of thyroid cancer in the United States in 2009 (27,200 will occur in women and about 10,000 will occur in men); Whereas about 1,630 people (940 women and 690 men) will die of thyroid cancer in 2009; Whereas family history, gender, age, and prior exposure of the thyroid gland to radiation are all factors associated with thyroid cancer; Whereas thyroid cancer symptoms can include a lump or nodule in the front of the neck, hoarseness or difficulty speaking, swollen lymph nodes, difficulty swallowing or breathing, and pain in the throat or neck; Whereas anyone having these symptoms should schedule a check up with their doctor; Whereas most thyroid cancers are now found much earlier than in the past and can be treated successfully; Whereas national organizations who work to raise awareness, and provide detailed information on thyroid cancer, include, but are not limited to, the American Cancer Society, the Thyroid Cancer Survivors Association, the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists, the American Thyroid Association, and the National Cancer Institute; Whereas greater awareness and early detection of thyroid cancer can improve and save the lives of thousands of people in the United States each year; and Whereas observing Thyroid Cancer Awareness Month during the month of September would provide a special opportunity to enhance thyroid cancer awareness and raise the importance of individuals having their doctor examine their neck should any symptoms of thyroid cancer occur: Now, therefore, be it

That Congress— (1)supports the observance of Thyroid Cancer Awareness Month in order to enhance thyroid cancer awareness and encourage early detection; and (2)recognizes and applauds national and community thyroid cancer organizations for their work in promoting awareness, providing information and education, and providing support to those who have thyroid cancer or are thyroid cancer survivors.