Mr. Speaker, I am proud to rise in favor of H.Res. 1011, which recognizes the importance of cervical health and of detecting cervical cancer during its earliest stages, and supporting the goals and ideals of Cervical Cancer Awareness Month.

January is National Cervical Health Awareness Month and it is important we highlight the educational efforts that have been made to increase early detection of cervical cancer. Almost half of the women that are diagnosed with this life threatening disease are between the ages 35 and 55 years of age and because it is a slow growing cancer it can be diagnosed with early detection tests. Although the month of January is almost over, the need for cervical cancer awareness and education should continue throughout the entire year.

Awareness is a leading cause in the annual decline in deaths from cervical cancer. The survival rate of individuals who have cervical cancer is 96-99 percent when detected in the early stages versus only a 15-20 percent survival rate when cervical cancer is diagnosed after it has spread throughout the body. It is because of successful programs, such as the National Cervical Cancer Awareness Month, that encourage early diagnosis so Americans can lead full and active lives.

By supporting the observance of Cervical Health Awareness Month, we have the opportunity to encourage women to educate themselves about the disease and the screening methods that are used.

Mr. Speaker, I urge Members to support this resolution.

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