Received via e-mail June 20

Dear Editor,

It is estimated that more than nine out of every 10 people who are diagnosed with pancreatic cancer succumb to the terrible disease. Approximately 74 percent of individuals who are diagnosed with pancreatic cancer will die within the first year of diagnosis, and only six percent survive more than five years.

This year alone, it is estimated that 670 Louisianans will be diagnosed with pancreatic cancer and 570 will die from this insidious disease.

Based on the lack of progress made in improving survival rates to date, the situation for those with pancreatic cancer will not improve without drastic action. That is why Congress is currently debating legislation, known as the Pancreatic Cancer Research & Education Act (S. 362/H.R. 733). The bill requires that the National Cancer Institute (NCI) develops a long-term and comprehensive strategic plan for pancreatic cancer research that will provide direction and accountability for federal research funds.

This life-saving legislation has overwhelming bi-partisan support in Congress, including the support of Congressman Bill Cassidy, but it needs your support in order to be passed. Helping to ensure a better future for those with pancreatic cancer relies on something as simple as contacting Congressman Cassidy and urging him to talk to his leadership about passing, without delay, the Pancreatic Cancer Research & Education Act.

This can be done on National Call-In Day held Tuesday, June 26. Visit www.knowitfightitendit.org to take action today.

With your help, fewer Louisianans will lose their lives to this deadly illness.

Julie Fleshman, JD, MBA

President/CEO

Pancreatic Cancer Action Network