Legislation : Colorectal Cancer Resolution

Resolution in Support of the North Dakota Cancer Coalition Colorectal Cancer Prevention and Control Activities

WHEREAS colorectal cancer is the third-most commonly diagnosed cancer and the second-leading cause of cancer death in North Dakota; AND

WHEREAS only 44% of the population ages 50 and older receive regular colorectal cancer screening; AND

WHEREAS the average cost of colorectal cancer treatment is significantly greater than the cost of screening; AND

WHEREAS screening can prevent up to 90% of colorectal cancer diagnoses;

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED by the North Dakota Public Health Association that:

1. The North Dakota Public Health Association strongly supports colorectal cancer screening as a means to reduce colorectal cancer incidence; AND
2. The North Dakota Public Health Association supports the North Dakota Cancer Coalition in its efforts to increase colorectal cancer prevention and control; AND
3. The North Dakota Public Health Association supports the ongoing efforts of the 2008-2009 North Dakota Department of Health Colorectal Cancer Screening Initiative and encourages expansion of the program through increased legislative funding; AND
4. The North Dakota Public Health Association supports the efforts of the American Cancer Society, partnering with the North Dakota Cancer Coalition, to secure legislative approval and funding for future colorectal cancer prevention and control efforts. Further, this funding should not come from currently existing public health program dollars such as Tobacco Settlement Funds or the Community Health Grant Program, as those sources are vitally needed to address tobacco-related and other diseases in our state.