House Concurrent Resolution 53

(As Adopted by House and Senate)

A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION DESIGNATING THE MONTH OF APRIL 2019 AS "ESOPHAGEAL CANCER AWARENESS MONTH" TO INCREASE EDUCATION ON THE SUBJECT AND PROMOTE THE WELLBEING OF MISSISSIPPIANS.

WHEREAS, esophageal cancer occurs when malignant cancer cells form in the tissues of the esophagus, a hollow tube-like structure that moves food and liquids from the throat to the stomach; and

WHEREAS, according to the American Cancer Society, thousands of new cases of esophageal cancer will be diagnosed in 2019; and

WHEREAS, esophageal cancer affects both men and women, but men are four times more likely to contract and die from the cancer than women, and it usually affects men and women 55 years of age or older; and

WHEREAS, it is difficult to diagnose esophageal cancer at early stages because there are no early signs or symptoms, and the later stages can be treated but rarely can be cured; and

WHEREAS, the symptoms include weight loss, painful or difficult swallowing, pain behind the breastbone, hoarseness and cough, and indigestion and heartburn; and

WHEREAS, esophageal cancer deaths can be prevented by early diagnosis through routine physical exams to check for general signs of health, including checking for lumps, chest x-rays of the organs and bones inside the chest, and a series of x-rays of the esophagus and the stomach; and

WHEREAS, individuals may reduce their risk of acquiring esophageal cancer by engaging in regular exercise, developing healthy eating habits, and avoiding risk factors such as smoking and heavy alcohol consumption; and

WHEREAS, the Mississippi Legislature is dedicated to protecting the health of the residents of this state and supporting the fight against esophageal cancer; and

WHEREAS, declaring April as "Esophageal Cancer Awareness Month" will promote the prevention, early detection, and treatment strategies of the cancer, thereby enhancing the health and wellbeing of residents of the State of Mississippi:

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE STATE OF MISSISSIPPI, THE SENATE CONCURRING THEREIN, That we do hereby declare the month of April 2019 as "Esophageal Cancer Awareness Month" to promote education on the subject and enhance the wellbeing of the citizens of this state.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That copies of this resolution be furnished to the members of the Capitol Press Corps.