Strategy needed to fight pancreatic cancer

Pancreatic cancer has the lowest survival rate of all cancers tracked by the American Cancer Society and the National Cancer Institute. There are no early detection tools, no effective treatments. Despite these facts, the federal government has no long-term comprehensive research strategy to combat pancreatic cancer.

On Aug. 23, 2010, I lost my mother to pancreatic cancer. The reality of this disease and the experience of listening to doctors tell me there was virtually nothing they could do for her inspired me to act. I have made it a priority to help others facing this deadly disease.

I am committed to helping the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network in its efforts to secure legislation that will ensure the federal government begins to take this disease seriously. The best way to fight this disease and change the status quo is to persuade Congress to pass the Pancreatic Cancer Research & Education Act (S. 362/H.R. 733). The bill would require the NCI to develop a long-term comprehensive strategic plan. Go to www.knowitfightitendit.org to learn more.

Lynn O'Brien

Waterloo