[Congressional Record Volume 159, Number 160 (Tuesday, November 12, 2013)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1638]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




     SUPPORT FOR NATIONAL BLADDER HEALTH WEEK, NOVEMBER 11-15, 2013

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                       HON. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, November 12, 2013

  Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to 
express my support for National Bladder Health Week, November 11-15, 
2013. Since 1995, the second week in November has been designated as a 
time to encourage individuals to talk to their friends, loved ones, and 
health care professionals about bladder health and pelvic floor 
disorders (PFDs).
  An article in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) 
demonstrated that nearly one-quarter of all women and more than one-
third of older women reported symptoms of at least one PFD. As the 
population of older women increases, the national burden related to 
PFDs in terms of health care costs, lost productivity, and decreased 
quality of life will be substantial.
  It is critical to educate women about PFDs now. PFDs will impact one 
in three women at some point during their lives, yet most Americans 
underestimate or are unsure about their prevalence. The lack of 
awareness continues to affect the millions of women who remain 
undiagnosed, untreated and whose quality of life remains negatively 
impacted by these common disorders.
  Women need to understand the facts about PFDs and to feel empowered 
with information on how to pursue individualized solutions for improved 
quality of life. Unfortunately, we may not realize that someone we 
know--a sister, mother, daughter, aunt, or another loved one--is 
suffering in silence not realizing their condition is treatable. This 
week is the time to raise awareness and begin talking about pelvic 
floor disorders. Please join me in supporting National Bladder Health 
Week.

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