Brooklyn, NY -

This report revealed skyrocketing asthma and diabetes rates, high instances of lead poisoning, and an increase in heart disease, cardiovascular issues, high cholesterol and osteoporosis among the residents of this region.

"These neighborhoods continue to lack crucial health and medical services," Congressman Towns asserted. "Action must be taken against this unacceptable reality facing Brooklyn residents. We must to everything in our power to address the healthcare needs of every resident."

Several years ago, the CDC conducted a study on cancer and asthma rates in this district finding that they ranked third out of the 59 citywide districts in asthma cases, a distressing statistic that necessitates immediate attention by health and medical officials.

"The CDC must take expedient action on this issue and commission the updated Asthma and Cancer study, in order to ascertain how we can better serve the needs of this community," added Congressman Towns.

With health problems in New York City on the rise overall, this report is of utmost importance. A recent report from the New York City Health Department indicated that the City is facing a sharp rise in deaths from the diabetes epidemic, up 75 percent since the 1990s, with especially high rates of diagnoses in Williamsburg and Bushwick, which is costing the City nearly $500 million a year.

This, in addition to the Community Board's findings that lead poisoning in Williamsburg, which can lead to health, learning and behavioral problems in children, requires increased access to testing, treatment, and education on the matter, clearly indicate the health needs of this district are not being met.

"It is simply unconscionable for the City to neglect its responsibility to provide quality health care services. I will continue to lead the charge on behalf of the Williamsburg, Greenpoint, and Bushwick communities."