DELAWARE STATE SENATE

151st GENERAL ASSEMBLY

SENATE RESOLUTION NO. 19

RECOGNIZING OCTOBER 13, 2021 AS "METASTATIC BREAST CANCER AWARENESS DAY" IN THE STATE OF DELAWARE.

WHEREAS, hundreds of families across Delaware are affected by metastatic breast cancer (MBC), a devastating stage of breast cancer that occurs when cancer spreads to other parts of the body, such as the bones, lungs, liver, and brain; and

WHEREAS, every year, 200,000 Americans are newly diagnosed with breast cancers, with 6 to 10 percent receiving the devastating news that their breast cancer has metastasized; and

WHEREAS, it is estimated that between 150,000 and 250,000 individuals are living with MBC at any given time, with around 30 percent of all breast cancer patients eventually receiving the diagnosis of MBC; and

WHEREAS, tremendous progress has been made in the last 30 years related to detection, diagnosis, and treatment breast cancer in general; in contrast, only 2 to 5 percent of the funds raised for breast cancer research are spent on studies of metastasis, meaning there has been minimal progress related to the treatment of MBC; and

WHEREAS, MBC patients continue to face many unique challenges, including the emotional, physical, and financial demands of treatment protocols; and

WHEREAS, once diagnosed with MBC, a patient can expect to live for 18-24 months with treatment aimed at extending the best possible quality of life; and

WHEREAS, breast cancer awareness must include a spectrum of issues, including the risk factors, screening, treatment, and supports needed for patients with metastatic breast cancer; and

WHEREAS, today MBC remains incurable, but there is hope with additional research efforts underway to address this disease; and

WHEREAS, the recognition of “Metastatic Breast Cancer Awareness Day” allows us to reflect on the illness and its impact on communities throughout Delaware, as well as the need for additional support for those with this illness, and to raise further awareness about this cause.

NOW, THEREFORE:

BE IT RESOLVED that the Senate of the 151st General Assembly of the State of Delaware hereby proclaims October 13, 2021, as “Metastatic Breast Cancer Awareness Day” in Delaware.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Delaware Senate encourages Delawareans to become more aware of and informed about metastatic breast cancer.

SYNOPSIS

This resolution recognizes October 13, 2021 as "Metastatic Breast Cancer Awareness Day" in Delaware and encourages awareness among Delawareans.

Author: Senator Gay