2015 Senate Joint Resolution 76
ENROLLED JOINT RESOLUTION
Relating to: proclaiming January 2016 as Cervical Health Awareness Month in Wisconsin.
Whereas, 79 million Americans currently have Human Papillomavirus (HPV), and many of these individuals are not aware that they are infected; and
Whereas, HPV is a major cause of cervical cancer, with nearly 12,000 women being diagnosed each year; and
Whereas, HPV is one of the most common infections that can be spread through sexual activity, and taking proactive measures to prevent the spread of this infection would reduce health care expenditures in the United States; and
Whereas, HPV can be prevented through the HPV vaccine and this vaccine can be found at community health care sources, sometimes at little to no cost; and
Whereas, regular screening tests, known as Pap screens, can dramatically reduce the chance of women getting cervical cancer, as these tests detect abnormal cells before these cells become cancerous; and
Whereas, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services believes most deaths from cervical cancer could be prevented through proactive screening and follow-up care; and
Whereas, it is in the public interest to promote proactive Pap screens and well-woman visits as a way to reduce the occurrence of cervical cancer; and
Whereas, the legislature has an opportunity to join a national awareness effort to promote cervical health; now, therefore, be it
Resolved by the senate, the assembly concurring, That the legislature hereby proclaims January 2016 as Cervical Health Awareness Month in Wisconsin.
