National Breast And Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program Reauthorization Act Of 2007

Floor Speech

NATIONAL BREAST AND CERVICAL CANCER EARLY DETECTION PROGRAM REAUTHORIZATION ACT OF 2007 -- (Extensions of Remarks - April 17, 2007)

* Ms. McCOLLUM of Minnesota. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of the National Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program Reauthorization Act.

* Increasing access to cancer screening for women at risk is an essential part of preventing deaths from breast and cervical cancers. However, unfortunately, women with fewer resources and women of color, who are disproportionately uninsured or underinsured, are significantly less likely to have access to preventative screenings such as mammograms and Pap tests.

* I am proud to be a cosponsor of H.R. 1132, which reauthorizes the National Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program, NBCCEDP, to improve access to screening and diagnostic services for breast and cervical cancers among underserved women. It also authorizes increased funding for this lifesaving program.

* Since it was created in 1991, NBCCEDP has provided breast and cervical cancer screening services to more than 2.9 million uninsured and underinsured women. It has diagnosed more than 29,000 breast cancers, 94,000 precursor cervical lesions, and 1,800 cervical cancers. H.R. 1132 renews our commitment to saving women's lives through screening and early detection of breast and cervical cancers.

* Ensuring that all women have access to these vital health services must be a priority. I urge my colleagues to join me in supporting this bill.

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