A resolution supporting the goals and ideals of National Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month.

Whereas ovarian cancer is the deadliest of all gynecologic cancers, and the reported mortality rate from ovarian cancer is increasing;

Whereas ovarian cancer is the 5th leading cause of cancer deaths among women in the United States;

Whereas the mortality rate for ovarian cancer has not significantly decreased since the War on Cancer was declared, nearly 40 years ago;

Whereas all women are at risk for ovarian cancer, and 90 percent of women diagnosed with ovarian cancer do not have a family history that puts them at higher risk;

Whereas the Pap test is sensitive and specific to the early detection of cervical cancer, but not to ovarian cancer;

Whereas there is currently no reliable early detection test for ovarian cancer;

Whereas many people are unaware that the symptoms of ovarian cancer often include bloating, pelvic or abdominal pain, difficulty eating or feeling full quickly, urinary symptoms, and several other symptoms that are easily confused with other diseases;

Whereas, due to the lack of a reliable early detection test, 75 percent of cases of ovarian cancer are detected at an advanced stage, making the overall 5-year survival rate only 45 percent;

Whereas, if ovarian cancer is diagnosed and treated at an early stage, before the cancer spreads outside of the ovary, the survival rate is as high as 90 percent;

Whereas there are factors that are known to reduce the risk for ovarian cancer and that play an important role in the prevention of the disease;

Whereas awareness and early recognition of ovarian cancer symptoms are the best way to save the lives of women;

Whereas, each year during the month of September, the Ovarian Cancer National Alliance holds a number of events to increase public awareness of ovarian cancer; and

Whereas the President has designated September 2009 as National Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month: Now, therefore, be it