From time to time my office distributes press releases and written statements on state and national issues, debate in the Senate, and legislation that I am working on. For your convenience, I post these documents on my site for your review.
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Senate Declares Prostate Cancer Awareness
“September: National Prostate Cancer Awareness Month”
Friday, September 19, 2008
WASHINGTON – The United States Senate last night unanimously approved S. Res 667, introduced by U.S. Senator Jeff Sessions (R-AL), declaring September “National Prostate Cancer Awareness Month.”
The resolution is aimed at enhancing awareness of prostate cancer and encouraging the public to take an active role in the fight to increase early detection, improve treatment, and discover a cure for the disease.
More than 186,320 men in the United States will be diagnosed with prostate cancer this year. The disease will lead to more than 28,000 U.S. deaths.
Sessions, a prostate cancer survivor, is active in efforts to increase the public’s awareness of this treatable disease.
“It is critical that men over the age of 45 undergo annual screenings for prostate cancer. The screening typically is a simple blood test and physical exam. It is a deadly disease that is not easily detected without proper examination,” Sessions said. “While it may be years before a cure is discovered, we are not powerless against this disease. The best opportunities are found in the areas of early detection and treatment. Recognizing September as National Prostate Cancer Awareness Month is one step we can take to help men realize the importance of regular examinations.”
Studies indicate that prostate cancer is the most commonly diagnosed non-skin cancer and the second-leading cause of male cancer-related deaths. One in six U.S. men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer in his lifetime, and 30 percent of all new diagnoses will occur in men under the age of 65.
There are no noticeable symptoms of the cancer while it is in its early stages, making screening critical for early detection.
Most health insurance plans cover the screening process.
Sessions’ resolution was co-sponsored by 43 senators.
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