FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

WASHINGTON, D.C. ----

In a letter today to Governor Tauese, Congressman Faleomavaega announced that the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has awarded $283,521 to American Samoa's Department of Health Services. This award was issued through the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) of the Public Health Service, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. The award is for a Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program.

Faleomavaega commented, "This money is meant to assist the Public Health Division of the Department of Health in activities related to the early detection and prevention of breast and cervical cancer." He continued, "There is no question that early detection is a critical factor in the prevention of these and other cancers. This project will have a major and positive impact on the chance that the women of American Samoa have to survive these diseases."

"Governor Tauese, Dr. Joseph Tufa and the staff of the Public Health Division of the Department of Health should be recognized for their concern for the health of the people of American Samoa," the Congressman said. He added, "Too many women in American Samoa have died as a result of the lack of early detection. It is time this problem was addressed. I commend the Public Health Division for their efforts and their foresight in pursuing these funds, and I congratulate them on submitting a successful application."