Legislative Bulletin: H.Con.Res. 60, Supporting the Observance of Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month
Floor Situation: H.Con.Res. 60 is being considered under suspension of the rules, requiring a two-thirds vote for passage. The legislation was introduced by Rep. Kay Granger (R-TX) on February 25, 2009.
Summary: H.Con.Res. 60 would resolve that Congress:
- “Supports the observance of Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month in order to provide a special opportunity to offer education on the importance of early detection and screening;
- “Recognizes and applauds the national and community organizations for their work in promoting awareness about colorectal cancer, providing information on the importance of prevention and early detection through regular screening, and facilitating access to treatment for its sufferers; and
- “Urges organizations and health practitioners to ‘earn a Blue Star’ by using this opportunity to promote awareness about colorectal cancer and to support early identification and removal of pre-cancerous polyps, detectable only through colorectal cancer screenings.”
Background: According to the resolution’s findings, more than 148,000 Americans are diagnosed with, and nearly 50,000 Americans die from, colon cancer every year. The findings also note that colon cancer is treatable when detected early, but only 39 percent of Americans have their colon cancer detected at an early stage due to lack of preventive screening and detection.
Cost: The resolution does not authorize expenditures.