[Congressional Record Volume 144, Number 146 (Wednesday, October 14, 1998)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2161]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


       WOMEN'S HEALTH RESEARCH AND PREVENTION AMENDMENTS OF 1998

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                               speech of

                          HON. EDOLPHUS TOWNS

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, October 13, 1998

  Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of S. 1722, 
The Women's Health Research and Prevention Amendments of 1998. This 
legislation is a positive step in the right direction towards 
prioritizing research and prevention in regards to women's health.
  This timely legislation increases Congress support of research which 
will clearly benefit a segment of the population often relegated to a 
``second place'' status in research. For too long, research on men has 
been extrapolated to women especially in the area of cardiovascular 
disease. It is time for Congress to acknowledge the lack of strong and 
complete research on women's health issues, and do something about it. 
The question should no longer be when, the question should be, shall we 
do it today? This legislation is our opportunity to tell the women of 
America that we recognize their unique health problems and want to 
advance plans to combat them.
  The bill expands research and education in areas such as; breast, 
ovarian and related cancer, osteoporosis, Paget's and other bone 
diseases. These diseases have devastated many women, but this 
legislation allows us to continue to elucidate their pathogenesis, 
treat, and most importantly possibly prevent these diseases. The 
importance of the education and early detection programs this 
legislation extends should not go unnoticed. Education is one of the 
most powerful keys to empowering women with regards to their health. It 
also removes the social isolation so many of these ailments may create. 
In addition S. 1722 will help women to be aware of preventative health 
programs and support groups designed to assist them in their time of 
need.
  Mr. Speaker, I strongly urge my colleagues on both sides of the aisle 
to join me in an aye vote for this legislation. As I stated earlier the 
question is not when will we do it, the question is will we do it 
today?

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