LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION memorializing Governor Andrew M. Cuomo to
proclaim April 2015 as Esophageal Cancer Awareness Month in the State of
New York

WHEREAS, Esophageal cancer is one of the fastest growing cancer diag-
noses in the United States, increasing more than 400% in the past 20
years; and
WHEREAS, Esophageal cancer kills one American every 36 minutes each
and every day; and
WHEREAS, Esophageal cancer is among the deadliest of cancers, with
fewer than one in five patients surviving five years; and
WHEREAS, Esophageal cancer has low survival rates because it is usual-
ly discovered at advanced stages when treatment outcomes are poor; and
WHEREAS, Esophageal cancer in the United States is most often caused
by persistent heartburn or Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD), yet
many who are at risk are unaware of the potential danger GERD can pres-
ent when it occurs over several weeks or months; and
WHEREAS, Esophageal cancer can be a silent killer with patients often
unaware that the cough, hoarse voice, sore throat or chest pain they
suffer can be signs of GERD and are reasons to discuss screening for
esophageal cancer with their health care professional; and
WHEREAS, Esophageal cancer can develop from GERD when fluids from the
stomach splash up to create cellular change in the esophagus resulting
in a precancerous condition known as Barrett's Esophagus which can lead
to a 125-fold increase in a patient's risk of developing esophageal
cancer; and
WHEREAS, Esophageal cancer can be prevented through early detection of
its precursor, Barrett's Esophagus, which can be treated with new, cura-
tive outpatient techniques; and
WHEREAS, Esophageal Cancer Action Network (ECAN) is working to improve
public awareness of the link between heartburn and cancer and supports
progress in early detection and treatment of esophageal cancer; and
WHEREAS, Esophageal cancer awareness, along with improvements in
prevention, early detection and treatment strategies, will enhance the
health and well-being of all Americans; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
memorialize Governor Andrew M. Cuomo to proclaim April 2015 as Esopha-
geal Cancer Awareness Month in the State of New York; and be it further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be tran-
smitted to The Honorable Andrew M. Cuomo, Governor of the State of New
York.