Designates May as "National Bladder Cancer Awareness Month" to raise public awareness, promote early treatment, and support research for this prevalent and costly disease.
Gregory Murphy
Representative
NC-3
This resolution designates May as "National Bladder Cancer Awareness Month" to raise public awareness, promote early treatment, and support research for this prevalent and costly disease. It highlights the significant impact of bladder cancer, especially among veterans, and the importance of early diagnosis for improved survival rates. The resolution encourages communities, research institutions, and individuals to actively participate in raising awareness and supporting those affected by bladder cancer.
Resolution Backs May as 'National Bladder Cancer Awareness Month,' Spotlighting High Costs and Need for Early Detection
This resolution officially throws its support behind designating May as "National Bladder Cancer Awareness Month." The aim is to significantly boost public understanding of a disease that touches over 800,000 families in the U.S. With projections for 2025 estimating 84,870 new diagnoses and over 17,420 deaths this year alone, the core message is clear: increasing awareness and promoting early treatment can save lives.
The Reality of Bladder Cancer: More Common and Costly Than You Think
Bladder cancer doesn't discriminate, affecting individuals across all demographics, and it stands as one of the most frequently diagnosed cancers in the United States, with a notable prevalence among veterans. A critical factor for effective treatment is early diagnosis. However, many people are unaware of key symptoms, such as blood in the urine, which can lead to delays in seeking necessary tests and care. Compounding the issue, bladder cancer is recognized as one of the most expensive cancers to treat. This is largely due to its high recurrence rate, ranging from 50 to 80 percent, often requiring patients to undergo lifelong monitoring and follow-up treatments. The resolution highlights that despite its prevalence, advancements in bladder cancer treatment have been limited over the past three decades, underscoring the urgent need for research to improve patient outcomes.
Shining a Light: Awareness, Research, and Support Efforts
The resolution acknowledges the critical role of ongoing research and support systems. It points out that both the Congressionally Directed Medical Research Programs and the National Institutes of Health are actively supporting high-risk research aimed at finding a cure. There's also a specific focus on veterans; the resolution notes that in 2025, the Department of Veterans Affairs is slated to significantly increase bladder cancer treatments for veterans exposed to toxins, a mandate stemming from the Honoring our PACT Act of 2022. Furthermore, the Bladder Cancer Advocacy Network is recognized for its two decades of instrumental work in raising awareness, supporting patients, and funding vital research. The resolution also mentions that throughout May, communities often organize walks and other events to build awareness and raise funds for this crucial research.
The Official Stamp and a Call to Action
Beyond the symbolic designation, this resolution serves as a call to action. It formally supports the goals of National Bladder Cancer Awareness Month and urges the American people, interested organizations, the scientific research community, and individuals affected by the disease to step up. The encouragement is to actively promote awareness of bladder cancer, foster a deeper understanding of its impact, and take a proactive role in the collective effort to combat and ultimately end bladder cancer. This includes observing the month with appropriate ceremonies and activities designed to educate and mobilize.