For Immediate Release: May 14, 2007

Sutton Recognizes National Women's Health Week

Washington, D.C. - This week, Congresswoman Betty Sutton recognized the eighth annual National Women's Health Week by cosponsoring House Concurrent Resolution 144.  The resolution recognizes the importance of preventing diseases that commonly affect women and the importance of federally funded programs that provide research and collect data on common diseases affecting women. 

"National Women's Health Week is a wonderful opportunity to raise awareness about some of the significant health problems that typically afflict women," Sutton said.  "We have made some progress in women's health, but we must do more to provide women across the nation with the research and programs to improve their health."

National Women's Health Week began on May 13 and ends on May 19. The theme for National Women's Health Week 2007 is "It's Your Time: Pamper Your Mind, Body and Spirit."  During the week, families, communities, businesses, government, health organizations and others will work to celebrate the progress made in women's health, increase understanding of women's health issues, encourage women to get regular check-ups and educate women about steps they can take to improve their physical and mental health. 

"Although I am proud to celebrate National Women's Health Week, it is important that we continue our commitment to improving women's health year-round.  Since coming to Congress, I have taken up several initiatives to ensure that women and young girls have access to better health services," Sutton said.

Sutton also cosponsored H.R. 1132, the National Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program Reauthorization Act, a bill to provide access to cancer screening services for underserved women.  This bill was signed into law in April.

Sutton is also a co-sponsor of H.R. 1014, the Heart Disease Education, Analysis Research, and Treatment for Women Act.  This bill would improve the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of heart disease, stroke and other cardiovascular diseases in women through educational campaigns, state-wide programs and greater attention to these issues within the Department of Health and Human Services. 

"Heart disease is the leading killer of American women, and we need to focus our efforts on increasing awareness so that women can identify the early warning signs of cardiovascular problems," Sutton said. "Although heart disease affects men and women, it manifests itself differently in the sexes.  It is important that women understand the warning signs and take early action."

"There are also a number of health issues unique to women that need our attention.  From ensuring that women at risk for breast cancer get regular mammograms, to providing appropriate prenatal care, to dealing with post-partum depression, it is vital that women's health is a top priority," Sutton said.  "I will do all I can to ensure it remains at the top of our agenda."

Contact: Ian Mandel at 202-225-3401