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WHEREAS, Breast cancer strikes women more than any other type of cancer, with the exception of skin cancer, and is the second leading cause of cancer death among women; and
WHEREAS, In October, 1985, the first National Breast Cancer Awareness Month (NBCAM) program began with its founding members distributing brochures, speaking to news reporters, and testifying before U.S. Congressional Committee advocating the crucial need for widespread access to mammography;
WHEREAS, today the National Breast Cancer Awareness Month organization is a collaboration of public service organizations, medical associations and governmental agencies working together to promote breast cancer awareness by educating and empowering women to take charge of their own health for the past 25 years; and,
WHEREAS, since NBCAM's inception, mammography use has doubled, and breast cancer death rates have declined and could decline further if all women age 40 and older receive mammograms at regular intervals; and,
WHEREAS, even though October is recognized as National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, the awareness occurs year round.
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NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Council of the City of Pittsburgh does hereby commend the National Breast Cancer Awareness Month organization for all of its work in educating the public and urging all women to get the facts about mammography.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Council of the City of Pittsburgh does hereby declare the month of October 2009, to be "Breast Cancer Awareness Month " in recognition of this life saving initiative.