HR0727 97TH GENERAL ASSEMBLY

HR0727 LRB097 17070 GRL 62268 r

HOUSE RESOLUTION

WHEREAS, In the United States, approximately 12,000 women each year are diagnosed with cervical cancer; approximately 4,000 women each year die from cervical cancer in the U.S.; and

WHEREAS, Half of the women diagnosed with the disease are between 35 and 55 years of age; approximately 20% of diagnoses are made in women older than 65; and

WHEREAS, Cervical cancer rates vary, but occur more often in African-American women and Hispanic women than in non-Hispanic white women; and

WHEREAS, Cervical cancer is usually a slow-growing cancer that may not have symptoms; cervical cancer is primarily caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), but can be detected by Papanicolaou test (Pap tests) or other early detection tests; and

WHEREAS, The Illinois Breast and Cervical Cancer Program provides access to screening and treatment options, including free pelvic exams and Pap tests for qualifying uninsured women; and

WHEREAS, Detecting cervical cancer in its earliest stages greatly improves survival rates; and

WHEREAS, Over 90% of women diagnosed with cervical cancer can survive when the cancer is localized and is caught in its early stages; therefore, be it

RESOLVED, BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE NINETY-SEVENTH GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS, that we designate January of 2012 as Cervical Health Awareness Month in the State of Illinois and encourage the citizens of this State to recognize the importance of good cervical health and of detecting cervical cancer in its earliest stages; and be it further

RESOLVED, That we recognize the patients and survivors of cervical cancer for their tremendous courage and determination.