Senate Concurrent Resolution 542

A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION RECOGNIZING AND COMMENDING THE SIGNIFICANT PUBLIC HEALTH SERVICE OF DR. ROY J. DUHE OF MADISON, MISSISSIPPI, WHO WAS INSTRUMENTAL IN COLON CANCER INITIATIVES AT THE UNIVERSITY OF MISSISSIPPI MEDICAL CENTER (UMMC).

WHEREAS, colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer in the United States and the second leading cause of death from cancers that affect both men and women. Colorectal cancer affects people in all racial and ethnic groups and is most common in people age 50 and older; and

WHEREAS, Roy J. Duhe of Madison, Mississippi, who has a PhD in Biochemistry, retired from UMMC as a Professor of Pharmacology and Radiation Oncology and has been instrumental in colon cancer initiatives in Mississippi that include:

• Mississippi Colon Cancer Roundtable (MSCCRT). In association with the American Cancer Society, this program organizes interested parties in the state to promote colon cancer initiatives and promote quality care in Mississippi for colon cancer; and

• The state license plate for colon cancer, which was the first in the nation and helped fund work on colon cancer research; and

• Started and worked tirelessly for the state initiative of "70 by 2020" for colon cancer screening; and

WHEREAS, before his state initiative, the percentage of colon cancer screening for eligible Mississippian's was 52%; however, the national campaign was "80 by 2018." Recognizing the national goal was unrealistic for Mississippi, Dr. Duhe initiated "70 by 20." Since that initiative and through hard work by Dr. Duhe and his staff, the percentage in Mississippi is now over 70%. The rise in numbers has a profound effect on Mississippians and their health; and

WHEREAS, Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month is observed in March to highlight the importance of screening for colorectal cancer, as well as to promote healthy lifestyle habits that can decrease a person's risk of developing the three distinct cancer types referred to collectively as colon cancer; and

WHEREAS, it is with great pride that we recognize a dedicated local Mississippi scientist whose research and patient screening have had a strong, positive impact on the health of Mississippians:

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE SENATE OF THE STATE OF MISSISSIPPI, THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES CONCURRING THEREIN, That we do hereby recognize and commend the significant public health service of Dr. Roy J. Duhe of Madison, Mississippi, who was instrumental in colon cancer initiatives at the University of Mississippi Medical Center, and thank Dr. Duhe and his family for their dedication.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That the State Board of Health continue to disseminate public information regarding the danger of colon cancer and the importance of screening.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That this resolution be presented to Dr. Duhe and his family, forwarded to the Dean of UMMC and made available to the Capitol Press Corps.