[Congressional Record Volume 157, Number 162 (Wednesday, October 26, 2011)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1935]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




           RECOGNIZING NATIONAL BREAST CANCER AWARENESS MONTH

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. ADAM SMITH

                             of washington

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, October 26, 2011

  Mr. SMITH of Washington. Mr. Speaker, as we honor National Breast 
Cancer Awareness Month, I rise to call upon my colleagues to join me in 
stressing the importance of getting regular mammograms. Regular 
mammograms are crucial for early detection of this terrible disease. 
The earlier breast cancer is detected, the better chance there is of 
winning the fight against breast cancer.
  Every two minutes, a woman is diagnosed with breast cancer, making 
this the most frequently diagnosed cancer among women in the United 
States. While traditionally thought of as an older woman's disease, 
breast cancer is found in women of all ages. The likelihood of 
diagnosis increases with age, but breast cancer is today being found 
more and more frequently among women in their 20s and 30s.
  Today, the two and a half million breast cancer survivors living in 
the United States are a testament to the courage and perseverance of 
the Americans who have faced this condition. These survivors are also 
living reminders about the importance of breast cancer awareness, 
following recommended screening guidelines, ensuring that those 
affected receive treatment, and continuing to fund groundbreaking and 
innovative research.
  Breast cancer does not discriminate; this deadly disease affects 
everyone regardless of age, wealth, or status. I stand in support of 
all of those who have been affected by breast cancer and encourage all 
available steps be taken to detect early and defeat this disease.

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