[Congressional Record Volume 158, Number 132 (Tuesday, October 2, 2012)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1679]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




           RECOGNIZING NATIONAL BREAST CANCER AWARENESS MONTH

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                         HON. LAURA RICHARDSON

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                        Tuesday, October 2, 2012

  Ms. RICHARDSON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize October as 
National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. This month is dedicated to 
promoting breast cancer education and awareness, raising funds for 
breast cancer research and emphasizing the importance of early 
detection in fighting the disease.
  Breast cancer is a harsh reality in our nation. It's a year-round 
battle, taking place every day, every hour for thousands of women 
across the country. Few people in this country have not been touched in 
some way by breast cancer, whether through personal experience or 
through the experience of a family member, friend or member of our 
community.
  This month, we stand alongside our mothers, daughters, sisters and 
wives to recognize breast cancer awareness month. Though we mark 
October as National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, the fight goes 
beyond this month and we must stay vigilant in our support.
  Breast cancer is still the most frequently diagnosed type of non-skin 
cancer and the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths among 
women in our nation. According to the American Cancer Association, this 
year 200,000 Americans will be diagnosed with the disease and nearly 
40,000 will lose their lives. Despite the great strides that have been 
made in earlier detection and improved treatment, there remains much to 
be accomplished.
  This month, Americans across the nation are encouraged to take the 
time to learn more about breast cancer awareness and understand risk 
factors, treatment and prevention. Learning about prevention can result 
in earlier detection of breast cancer in its early stages, and can 
significantly increase the chances of survival.
  The National Breast Cancer Foundation recommends that women should 
have regular clinical breast exams and mammograms, which can help 
improve the chances of surviving breast cancer. I encourage all women 
to talk with their healthcare providers and promote the early detection 
of breast cancer by having regular mammograms and clinical breast 
exams.
  Mr. Speaker, during this month, I urge all Americans to wear pink 
ribbons in recognition of breast cancer awareness and in honor of those 
who have lost their lives to this devastating disease as well as 
support those who are courageously fighting the battle against breast 
cancer. By raising awareness and supporting innovative research, we can 
move closer to achieving a world free of breast cancer.

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