Commending the United States Senate for Declaring March as Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month and encouraging Philadelphia's to take steps to prevent Colorectal Cancer.

WHEREAS, According to the American Cancer Society, Colorectal Cancer strikes 130,000 Americans annually, including 7,700 Pennsylvanians; and

WHEREAS, Colorectal Cancer is the second leading cause of death due to cancer, killing over 56,000 Americans and 3,400 Pennsylvanians annually; and

WHEREAS, Almost 25% of malignant colorectal cancer growths are triggered by genetic predisposition; and

WHEREAS, Many famous Americans including Ronald Reagan, Tip O'Neill, and Charles Schulz have had colon cancer; and

WHEREAS, Less than 50% of individuals over 50 years of age can significantly reduce the risk of developing colorectal cancer; and

WHEREAS, Adopting a healthy diet at a young age can significantly reduce the risk of developing colorectal cancer; and

WHEREAS, The Senate of the United States in conjunction with several public health groups recognized the danger of colorectal cancer and declared March as National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month to raise awareness and prevention of colorectal cancer; now therefore

RESOLVED, BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA, That we recognize the United States Senate for its encouragement of Colorectal Cancer Awareness and Prevention; and

FURTHER RESOLVED, That the Council encourages all residents of Philadelphia, particularly those over 50, be tested for colorectal cancer and take steps such as regular exercise and consumption of fruits and vegetables to assist in the prevention of colorectal cancer.

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