[Congressional Record Volume 151, Number 61 (Wednesday, May 11, 2005)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E933-E934]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




             COMMENDING NATIONAL HEPATITIS B AWARENESS WEEK

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                          HON. TED STRICKLAND

                                of ohio

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, May 11, 2005

  Mr. STRICKLAND. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to lend my support for 
House Resolution 250, supporting the goals and ideals of a National 
Hepatitis B Awareness Week.
  We possess the weapons to combat hepatitis B, including vaccination 
and treatment. For those infected, treatment options exist that are 
designed to stop the progression of liver disease and reduce liver 
damage. It is encouraging that educational programs like the ``Aim

[[Page E934]]

for the B'' campaign during National Hepatitis B Week will raise 
awareness about chronic hepatitis B. I am also impressed with community 
forums scheduled this week to educate those currently living with the 
disease as well as their doctors about new and improved methods that 
can prevent its transmission and progression to liver disease.
  As we recognize National Hepatitis B Awareness Week, I encourage 
Americans who may be at risk for chronic hepatitis B to get tested for 
the disease and to understand there is a large group of patients who do 
need treatment right now. With increased awareness, education and 
treatment for the disease, we can help stop the progression of 
hepatitis B to liver damage and liver disease.
  Mr. Speaker, I join my colleagues in reflecting on the importance of 
the work being done to combat chronic hepatitis B and recognize the 
fact that this is a preventable and treatable disease. I appreciate the 
opportunity to convey my support for House Resolution 250 and to 
recognize the need for more federal attention on hepatitis B.

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