Esophageal Cancer Awareness Month

WHEREAS, esophageal cancer is the fastest-growing cancer diagnosis in the United States, increasing more than 400% in the past 20 years; and

WHEREAS, esophageal cancer kills one American every 36 minutes each and every day; and

WHEREAS, esophageal cancer is among the deadliest of cancers, with fewer than one in five patients surviving five years; and

WHEREAS, esophageal cancer has low survival rates because it is usually discovered at advanced stages when treatment outcomes are poor; and

WHEREAS, in the United States, esophageal cancer is most often caused by persistent heartburn or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), yet many who are at risk are unaware of the potential  danger GERD can present when it occurs over several weeks or months; and

WHEREAS, esophageal cancer can be a silent killer with patients often unaware that the cough, hoarse voice, sore throat or chest pain they suffer can be signs of GERD and are reasons to discuss screening for esophageal cancer with their medical professional; and

WHEREAS, esophageal cancer can be prevented through early detection of its precursor, Barrett’s esophagus, which can be treated with new curative techniques; and

WHEREAS, the Esophageal Cancer Network (ECAN) is working to improve public awareness of the link between heartburn and cancer and supports progress in early detection and treatment of esophageal cancer; and

WHEREAS, esophageal cancer awareness, along with improvements in prevention, early detection and treatment strategies, will enhance the health and well-being of all Americans:

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Robert Bentley, Governor of Alabama, do hereby proclaim the month of April 2013, as

Esophageal Cancer Awareness Month

in the state of Alabama.

Given Under My Hand and the Great Seal of the Office of the Governor at the State Capitol in the City of Montgomery on the 1st day of April 2013.

                        

Robert Bentley, Governor