Denver residents ask Rep. DeGette for support of Pancreatic cancer research legislation

Posted in March 2010
http://denver.yourhub.com/Denver/Stories/News/Nonprofit/Story~754756.aspx

Volunteers with the Denver affiliate of the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network recently visited U.S. Rep. Diana DeGette's Denver office and met with Senior Congressional Aide Andrea Autobee.

The volunteers were asking for Rep. DeGette's support of the Pancreatic Cancer Research & Education Act (H.R. 745), the first substantive pancreatic cancer legislation introduced in the U.S. Congress.

The Pancreatic Cancer Research and Education Act proposes comprehensive research initiatives and programs that would facilitate finding a cure for pancreatic cancer. Once enacted and fully funded, this legislation will create a more targeted approach to fighting pancreatic cancer and provide scientists with the resources necessary to make significant advances.

Pancreatic cancer is the fourth leading cause of cancer death in the United States and the most deadly among leading cancer killers with a five year survival rate of 5 percent. There are currently no early detection tools or effective treatments. 76 percent of patients die within the first year of diagnosis. This year, over 42,000 people in the United States will be diagnosed with the disease.

Volunteers from the Denver affiliate of the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network will join hundreds of advocates in Washington, D.C. for the organizations Fourth Annual Advocacy Day on June 22 nd. To learn more about the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network and Advocacy Day, visit www.pancan.org

About the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network
The Pancreatic Cancer Action Network is the only national organization creating hope in a comprehensive way through research, patient support, community outreach and advocacy for a cure. The organization raises money for direct private funding of research-and advocates for more aggressive federal research funding of medical breakthroughs in prevention, diagnosis and treatment of pancreatic cancer.

The Pancreatic Cancer Action Network fills the void of information and options by giving patients and caregivers reliable, personalized information they need to make informed decisions. We create a sense of hope and community so no one has to face pancreatic cancer alone. The organization helps support individuals and communities all across the country to work together to raise awareness and funds to find a cure for pancreatic cancer.