[Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 100 (Monday, June 15, 2026)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E578]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




       RECOGNIZING FAMILIAL ADENOMATOUS POLYPOSIS AWARENESS WEEK

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                          HON. DORIS O. MATSUI

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                         Monday, June 15, 2026

  Ms. MATSUI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and commemorate 
June 14, 2026, through June 20, 2026 as Familial Adenomatous Polyposis 
(FAP) Awareness Week.
  FAP is a rare, inherited genetic condition that causes the 
development of thousands of colorectal polyps, and without early 
detection and treatment, it carries a near certainty of progression to 
colorectal cancer. It is estimated to affect approximately 1 in 10,000 
to 1 in 22,0000 individuals, with many cases arising from spontaneous 
genetic mutations. While FAP is rare, its impact is profound, often 
affecting multiple generations within a family and requiring lifelong 
medical management, genetic counseling, and proactive surveillance 
beginning in adolescence.
  As someone committed to improving rare disease care, I believe FAP 
Awareness Week highlights the need for greater publilc education and 
earlier screening. When identified early, FAP can be effectively 
managed to dramatically reduce the risk of cancer and save lives. 
However, many individuals remain undiagnosed until the disease has 
progressed. Hence, there is the urgent need for increased awareness 
among both the public and healthcare providers.
  This week highlights the importance of raising awareness about 
hereditary colorectal cancer syndromes, supporting individuals and 
families impacted by them, and expanding access to genetic testing and 
specialized care. It also underscores the vital role of research, 
advocacy, and early detection in improving outcomes for people living 
with rare genetic conditions.
  This recognition honors patients, families, clinicians, and advocates 
who continue to raise awareness of FAP and work tirelessly to ensure 
that no diagnosis comes too late.
  Mr. Speaker, I ask all my colleagues to join me in honoring June 14, 
2026, through June 20, 2026, as Familial Adenomatous Polyposis 
Awareness Week.

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