[Congressional Record Volume 156, Number 72 (Thursday, May 13, 2010)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E838]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                      NATIONAL WOMEN'S HEALTH WEEK

                                 ______
                                 

                               speech of

                         HON. LAURA RICHARDSON

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, May 11, 2010

  Ms. RICHARDSON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today as a cosponsor of H. Con. 
Res. 268, which supports the goals and ideals of National Women's 
Health Week and requests that the President of the United States issue 
a proclamation calling upon the people of the United States and 
interested groups to observe National Women's Health Week with 
appropriate ceremonies and activities. This is an important measure 
that will increase public awareness of the critical issue of women's 
health.
  I thank Chairman Towns for his leadership in bringing this bill to 
the floor. I would also like to thank the sponsor of this legislation, 
Congressman Hinchey, for his dedication to ensuring that women's health 
is a national priority.
  Mr. Speaker, it is important that our nation adopt a heightened focus 
on the issue of women's health. Women of all backgrounds should be 
encouraged to reduce their risk of common diseases through preventative 
measures, such as engaging in regular exercise, eating a nutritious 
diet, and visiting a healthcare specialist to receive regular checkups 
and preventative screenings. These healthy habits begin at a young age 
and so we must stress the importance of preventative health measures to 
children in homes and schools across the country.
  Unfortunately, there is a high prevalence of disease and health 
complications among minority women. African-American women, Asian-
American women, and American Indian women all face a high risk of 
contracting diseases. As the representative of a district that is home 
to large African American and Latino populations, as well as the 
largest Cambodian population in the country, I understand the crucial 
importance of improving public awareness about women's health and the 
unique health challenges for minority women.
  Thanks to the historic passage of health care reform, we have taken a 
giant step in the right direction for women's health. All Americans 
will have access to affordable, quality care and no longer will women 
be discriminated against by insurance companies. We owe it to all women 
in this country--now and in future generations--to continue this effort 
to increase awareness regarding women's health.
  I urge my colleagues to join me in supporting H. Con. Res 268.

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