Cunningham Introduces Men's Health Act

4/10/2003

From: Harmony Allen for Rep. Cunningham, 202-225-5452

WASHINGTON, April 10 -- Congressman Randy "Duke" Cunningham (R-San Diego) introduced the Men's Health Act today. This legislation will establish an Office of Men's Health within the Department of Health & Human Services for the purpose of promoting men's health in the United States.

In 1994, Congress established National Men's Health Week, the week leading up to and including Father's Day. While Men's Health Week was an important first step, there is still much to be done to improve the health of American men. Alarming statistics show that men's health is at great risk. On average, men die almost 6 years younger than women and suffer higher mortality rates for the top 10 causes of death.

Statistics also show that increased research, prevention and awareness are key to improving health. "American men need better education on health risks that affect them. The lives of hundreds of thousands of men will continue to be threatened unless immediate action is taken to combat this growing crisis," said Congressman Cunningham.

The Office of Men's Health has the potential to positively change the lives of men across America," said Cunningham. "As a prostate cancer survivor, I know first hand the importance of annual examinations and early detection. This Office will help to raise awareness about threats to men's health and hopefully we can reduce the number of men who die each year from treatable diseases.