[Congressional Record Volume 153, Number 168 (Thursday, November 1, 2007)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2310]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




       SUPPORTING THE OBSERVANCE OF BREAST CANCER AWARENESS MONTH

                                 ______
                                 

                               speech of

                           HON. HEATH SHULER

                           of north carolina

                    in the house of representatives

                        Monday, October 29, 2007

  Mr. SHULER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of H. Con. 
Res. 230, observing Breast Cancer Awareness Month. I offer my thoughts 
and prayers to those who have lost family members to breast cancer, and 
offer hope and encouragement to those who are currently battling the 
disease.
  Breast cancer is the leading cause of death among women aged 45 to 
54, and 1 out of 8 women will be diagnosed with the disease over the 
course of their lifetime. It is expected that over 180,000 new cases of 
breast cancer will be diagnosed in 2007 alone.
  Fortunately, there is hope. When breast cancer is detected at early 
stages the survival rate for women is over 98 percent. Annual 
mammograms and monthly self-examinations are essential in detecting 
breast cancer at early stages.
  Research has significantly increased our understanding of breast 
cancer. While there is still no cure for breast cancer, researchers 
have identified key risk factors for the disease.
  I applaud the national and community organizations that promote 
awareness of breast cancer, offer support to those that are battling 
the disease, and provide information about early detection. It is 
imperative that these organizations continue their work to educate 
women about the disease and encourage monthly self-exams and annual 
mammograms.
  I ask my colleagues to join me in observing Breast Cancer Awareness 
Month.

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