Recognizing May 2009 as Fight Oral Cancer Month in Texas.
In its discussion, the resolution emphasizes the statistical realities surrounding oral cancer, including the estimated 35,000 diagnoses and 8,000 deaths each year in the United States alone. By promoting awareness, the resolution intends to encourage earlier detection and intervention. This could effectively lead to better health outcomes for patients, given that early-stage oral cancer has an impressive survival rate of 80 to 90 percent, contrasting sharply with the 45 percent mortality rate associated with late-stage diagnoses.
Senate Resolution No. 934 aims to recognize May 2009 as Fight Oral Cancer Month in Texas. This resolution is a collaboration with the Fight Oral Cancer Foundation, a nonprofit organization founded by Arma Fitzgerald, which seeks to raise awareness about cancers of the mouth and pharynx. The resolution underscores the significance of increased public knowledge regarding oral cancer, as early detection is crucial for improving survival rates. It highlights that individuals over the age of 40 are at a higher risk, with men being affected more often than women.
The resolution serves as a call to action for the citizens of Texas to become more informed about oral cancer's risks, signs, and the importance of regular screenings. By designating a month specifically for this cause, it aims to unify efforts around education and support for those affected by the disease. The Senate's acknowledgment also opens up opportunities for healthcare providers and educators to disseminate critical information and resources to the public effectively. However, while resolutions like SR934 do not carry the force of law, they set a precedent for public discussions on health issues and may stimulate further legislative actions regarding cancer awareness and prevention.