Texas State Resolution
Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month
November 1999   

By: Bivins, et al.

SCR No. 71

SENATE CONCURRENT RESOLUTION

WHEREAS, Acknowledging that pancreatic cancer is a disease that afflicts many Texas and Americans each year, the Texas legislature designates November, 1999 as Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month; and

WHEREAS, Despite its relative rareness, pancreatic cancer claims many lives; 13,900 men and 14,700 women will die of pancreatic cancer in 1999, which makes it the fourth-leading cause of cancer death among Americans; in Texas, the disease is responsible for 1,900 deaths; and

WHEREAS, Experts are not yet certain of this serious malady's causes, though researchers have managed to associate some activities with an increased incidence of pancreatic cancer; in particular, links have been made with the following activities and conditions: cigarette smoking, long-term exposure to certain chemical carcinogens, and a diet which is high in fat and low in fruits and vegetables; a person's genetic susceptibility and age are also thought to affect his or her likelihood of developing the disease; pancreatic cancer is particularly prevalent among diabetics; and

WHEREAS, Pancreatic cancer gives few early warning signs; patients often wait until their symptoms worsen before seeking help, which allows their condition to exacerbate; currently, there are no blood tests or other screening tests that can accurately detect early cancers of the pancreas; those who feel they are at risk for pancreatic cancer, or are experiencing lower back and stomach pain, should immediately consult their physician; and

WHEREAS, The survival rates of thise disease are discouraging and attest to the grimness of this particular cancer; approximately 18 percent of patients suffering from pancreatic cancer survive at least one year after diagnosis, and only four percent survive five years after diagnosis; when surgery is performed to remove cancerous cells from the pancreas, the five-year survival rate is about 20 percent; and

WHEREAS, Pancreatic cancer is certainly a disease that merits the attention and resources of our Texas communities; it is hoped that by designating November, 1999, as Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month, the public will become more informed about the life-threatening consequences of this dreadful disease; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That the 76th Legislature of the State of Texas hereby recognize November, 1999, as Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month and commend the organizers of this initiative on their noble efforts to promote Texans' health; and, be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this resolution be prepared to commemorate this valuable public service.