Supporting the Goals and Ideals of Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month

(House of Representatives)

Mr. PLATTS. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume.

Mr. Speaker, I introduced House Resolution 262 to help increase awareness about a horrible disease, pancreatic cancer. This year over 30,700 people will be diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. Because of the lack of early detection methods, 99 percent of those diagnosed will lose their lives, the highest mortality rate of any form of cancer. By the time the symptoms present themselves, it is almost always too late for a positive prognosis. Patients diagnosed have an average life expectancy of only 3 to 6 months.

It is a moral imperative for Congress to work to increase awareness about this life-threatening disease. Currently, the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network, known as Pan CAN, is the only national advocacy organization available for pancreatic cancer patients and their families and friends. This outstanding organization exists to create awareness, patient support, professional education and advocacy for pancreatic cancer funding.

It has been my pleasure to work with the Pan CAN network through a constituent of mine, Mr. Bob Hammen, in order to pass this resolution. With the passage of House Resolution 262, Congress will be adding our support to Pan CAN and their efforts to increase awareness for pancreatic cancer.

Mr. Speaker, I urge all Members to join me in supporting pancreatic cancer patients, their families and friends and Pan CAN by passing this important resolution and promoting November as Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month.

Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.