86R12125 BK-D

By: Frullo H.R. No. 478

R E S O L U T I O N

WHEREAS, March is National Colon Cancer Awareness Month, and this observance offers a fitting opportunity to honor the Lubbock and South Plains Colon Cancer Prevention Task Force for its work in educating the public about the lifesaving importance of early detection and screening for colorectal cancer; and

WHEREAS, Over the next 10 years, an estimated 1.5 million American men and women will be diagnosed with colorectal cancer, and as many as 600,000 of them will die from the disease if preventative measures are not effectively implemented; and

WHEREAS, Most colorectal cancers can be prevented by removing precancerous polyps from the colon; because polyps and colon cancers in their early stages typically produce no symptoms, it is important to be proactive and take advantage of screenings and early detection technology; and

WHEREAS, The American Cancer Society recommends that all men and women of normal health start preventative screenings for colorectal cancer at the age of 50, and individuals with a family history of colon polyps or cancer are advised to begin even sooner; and

WHEREAS, The Lubbock and South Plains Colon Cancer Prevention Task Force has been leading the fight against colorectal cancer in the region since 2001, and through its efforts, a growing number of at-risk individuals have received screenings; in 2019, the task force is placing a special year-long emphasis on rallying even greater support for colon cancer awareness and prevention; this initiative will help the area to meet the American Cancer Society's call to increase colon screening rates to 85 percent of the target age group by the year 2020; and

WHEREAS, The Lubbock and South Plains Colon Cancer Prevention Task Force is performing a vital public service by helping to ensure that more cases of colorectal cancer are treated and cured as early as possible, and the members of the organization are to be commended for the dedication they are bringing to this crucial endeavor; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 86th Texas Legislature hereby recognize the Lubbock and South Plains Colon Cancer Prevention Task Force for its accomplishments in advancing colorectal cancer prevention and awareness and extend to its members sincere best wishes for continued success with their important work; and, be it further

RESOLVED, That an official copy of this resolution be prepared for the task force as an expression of high regard by the Texas House of Representatives.