[Congressional Record Volume 151, Number 61 (Wednesday, May 11, 2005)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E929]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




   SUPPORTING GOALS AND IDEALS OF NATIONAL HEPATITIS B AWARENESS WEEK

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                               speech of

                           HON. TAMMY BALDWIN

                              of wisconsin

                    in the house of representatives

                         Thursday, May 5, 2005

  Ms. BALDWIN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to express my support for 
increased awareness and education around the potentially life-
threatening disease, hepatitis B. Hepatitis B is the most common liver 
infection in the world, and approximately 5,000 Americans will die from 
complications of this disease in 2005.
  The hepatitis B virus is extremely infectious. In fact, it is 100 
times more infectious than the HIV virus. Twelve million people in the 
United States are already infected, and an additional 100,000 more will 
become infected this year. In my home state of Wisconsin, nearly 600 
cases of hepatitis B are reported each year.
  This disease is easily transmittable through blood and blood 
products, bodily fluid, from mother to newborn, unprotected sex, and 
intravenous drug use. Furthermore, this disease is especially dangerous 
because many people are completely unaware that they may have come into 
contact with it until they develop more serious complications such as 
cirrhosis of the liver or liver cancer. Less than ten percent of 
Americans suffering from hepatitis B are receiving proper treatment for 
their disease.
  Last week, I was proud to join my colleagues in supporting House 
Resolution 250, Supporting the Goals and Ideals of National Hepatitis B 
Awareness Week. Though vaccinations, increased awareness and education 
initiatives surrounding hepatitis B, this disease is largely 
preventable. During the week, community events across the country will 
bring together patients, public health advocates, physicians, and at 
risk populations to increase awareness and bolster education efforts on 
preventive measures and disease management.
  As we recognize National Hepatitis B Awareness Week, I am hopeful 
that we can join together and work towards an end to this life-
threatening disease.

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