Lung cancer is responsible for more deaths annually than breast cancer, prostate cancer, colon cancer, liver cancer, melanoma, and kidney cancer combined. “It is time we all make lung cancer a top public health priority,” continued Houghton.
The Resolution urges the implementation of an interagency program to reduce lung cancer mortality rates. Similar programs have dramatically improved survival rates for breast cancer, prostrate cancer and colon cancer. “We know what works. Why not take lessons from our efforts at combating other cancers and apply them to our battle against lung cancer,” said Houghton. “We need a coordinated and comprehensive research effort that will reduce lung cancer mortality by at least 50% by 2015.”
“It is imperative that we shine the national spotlight on lung cancer and the devastating impact it has had on the American public,” said Main Street member, Congressman Fred Upton (R-MI). “More funding will bring expanded research resulting in breakthrough treatments, but most important of all, it will bring more hope to those folks who have been diagnosed with lung cancer. We have a responsibility in Congress to ensure that research for lung cancer is a national priority and that we set aside the necessary resources to fight the deadly disease. We cannot rest until we have a cure.”
“Main Street urges members to support this important resolution. It is a critical first step in combating lung cancer in this country,” concluded Houghton.
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